(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Judd Trump Falls in Shock Early Exit at Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters 2025
Jeddah: Defending champion Judd Trump was eliminated from the 2025 Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters after a 5-3 opening-round defeat to Oliver Lines on Tuesday night. Trump, the world No.1, won last year’s inaugural tournament in Riyadh, edging Mark Williams 10-9 on the final black in a memorable final.
Reflecting on his early exit, Trump said: “I’m disappointed to be eliminated as the defending champion. Losing is part of the sport, but my opponent deserved to win. I’ll come back even more determined in future competitions.”
Other notable results saw world No.4 John Higgins bow out after a 5-4 loss to Elliot Slessor, while Mark Williams advanced with a 5-3 win over China’s Yuan Sijun. Snooker legend Ronnie O’Sullivan cruised to a 5-0 victory against Joe O’Connor, and Shaun Murphy defeated Thepchaiya Un-Nooh 5-1, producing top breaks of 125, 66, and 118.
Chinese world champion Zhao Xintong also impressed, beating England’s Steven Holworth 5-0, signaling strong contention for the title.
