Neil Robertson effortlessly sailed into the second round of the World Championship, triumphing over Wu Yize with a score of 10-3 while delivering a statement-making performance, complete with two 146 breaks.

Although the 2023 World Championship in the Crucible in Sheffield might have just begun and Neil Robertson has set the bar high with a remarkable victory over Wu Yize in the first round.

The 2010 champion expressed his readiness for the competition upon arrival, and he lived up to his words by delivering an outstanding performance that is sure to grab the attention of his fellow contenders for the title.

Although he faced a tough challenge from Wu in the initial session, the Australian remained resolute and managed to take a commanding 6-3 lead, even though his younger adversary scored two centuries. This lead proved to be insurmountable for Wu as Neil Robertson held on to it until the end.

Robertson arrived in Sheffield with relatively little fanfare despite a lackluster season by his own lofty standards. However, his dominant performance against Wu would have undoubtedly caught the attention of his top rivals for the Crucible title, making him a force to be reckoned with.

Even though he is widely considered as one of the most talented players on the circuit, Robertson’s inability to secure another Crucible victory since his triumph 13 years ago remains a mystery in the game.

After winning against Wu Yize, Robertson will progress to the second round. He will be facing Jak Jones from Wales, fully aware that he has not made it to the one-table set-up that accompanies the semi-finals since 2014.

In other games, Jak Jones caused an upset in the first round by defeating Ali Carter 10-6, making him the first seed to be eliminated.

This victory sets up a match between Jones and Neil Robertson in the second round. Jones held a 5-4 lead going into the final session on Sunday, and he managed to maintain his advantage throughout the night, keeping Carter at bay.

Luca Brecel achieved his first-ever victory at the Crucible by holding off a comeback from Ricky Walden, ultimately winning 10-9. 

Meanwhile, Mark Williams, who has scored a total of 76 centuries in his Crucible career, is facing an uphill battle to reach the second round after losing the first session 5-4 to Jimmy Robertson.

Collins Nwokolo