O'Sullivan Defies Odds in Riyadh Classic

Ronnie O'Sullivan produced vintage snooker to overcome a 5-3 deficit against Kyren Wilson, securing a dramatic 6-5 victory in the Saudi Arabia Masters quarterfinals. The 49-year-old legend fired breaks of 110 and 118 in the final three frames to continue his quest for a first ranking title in 19 months.

Match Highlights:

• ⚡️ Rocket's early 88 and 116 breaks countered by Wilson's four half-centuries
• 🏆 Seven-time world champion's first semifinal appearance since January hiatus
• 💰 Tournament offers record £500,000 top prize, positioned as snooker's 'fourth major'

Post-Match Reactions:

"I had to capitalize on Kyren's errors - my experience got me through when it mattered," O'Sullivan told BBC Sport. "The Saudi fans' support reminds me this career won't last forever. I want to give them something special."

Semifinal Showdowns Set

Chris Wakelin continued his giant-killing run with a 6-5 win over Barry Hawkins, earning his career-highest £100,000 payday. The 33-year-old Englishman now faces O'Sullivan after previously defeating world champion Zhao Xintong.

Other Quarterfinal Results:

1. Elliot Slessor def. Mark Williams 6-5 (Third consecutive deciding-frame victory)
2. Neil Robertson def. Ali Carter 6-4 (Sets up Slessor clash)

The 'Ding Curse' Strikes Again Barry Hawkins became the 22nd consecutive player eliminated immediately after defeating Ding Junhui in a tournament - a bizarre streak continuing since 2021.

Tournament Outlook

With O'Sullivan chasing history and rising stars like Wakelin making breakthroughs, the Saudi Masters semifinals promise high-stakes drama. The Riyadh crowd anticipates potential classic encounters as snooker's new 'major' establishes its legacy.