SHEFFIELD, England — In a surprising turn of events at the World Snooker Championship, reigning champion Kyren Wilson was defeated by Lei Peifan, a Chinese newcomer, with a close score of 10-9 on Saturday at the Crucible Theatre. This result extends the infamous “Crucible Curse,” as no player has been able to defend their title in Sheffield since the championship’s relocation there in 1977.
Wilson, who has had a stellar season and entered the event as the top seed and a strong contender, initially seemed to have the match under control. He established a 6-3 lead in the first session, demonstrating the prowess that has earned him a place among the world’s best snooker players.
Despite Wilson’s early advantage, Lei, a 21-year-old making his debut and ranked 39th globally, demonstrated remarkable composure. As the match progressed, he managed to turn the tide, ultimately securing a dramatic victory by narrowly clinching the tense final frame during the evening session. Lei’s unexpected triumph marks a significant milestone in his career and a memorable moment in the championship’s history.