Legend Lives On: Jimmy White Hits 328th Century as He Defies Age in Stunning China Open Qualifier Win!
Jimmy White has opened his 47th consecutive season on the professional snooker tour in style, demonstrating that age has done nothing to dull his scoring touch. The 64-year-old snooker legend hit the 328th century of his glittering career as he eased past Sean O’Sullivan 6-2 in the opening round of China Open qualifying at Leicester’s Mattioli Arena.
White, a six-time World Championship finalist, is now just 10 centuries behind old rival Steve Davis, who sits 26th on the all-time century-makers list with 338. Against fellow Londoner O’Sullivan, White produced a brilliant 112 to cement his victory, showcasing the same flair and precision that made him a fan favorite for decades.
O’Sullivan, who recently regained his tour card via Q School, opened the match strongly, taking the first frame with a break of 61. But White quickly asserted his authority, claiming the next three frames to lead 3-1 at the mid-session interval. O’Sullivan narrowed the gap with a 51 break in the fifth frame, but White responded emphatically, finishing the match with classy runs of 112 and 59 to take the final three frames.
The match underlined White’s remarkable longevity. Having lost the last of his six World Championship finals to Stephen Hendry in 1994—less than a week after Sean O’Sullivan was born—White continues to compete at the highest level with the same competitive spirit. Fans and fellow players alike have celebrated his enduring talent, with social media users applauding him for winning matches at this stage of his career.
White’s reward is a second qualifying-round clash against Leicester hopeful Louis Heathcote, scheduled for Thursday evening at 19:30 UK time.
Elsewhere in Leicester, former Welsh Open finalist Andrew Higginson impressed with a 6-4 victory over Ireland’s Leone Crowley, producing breaks of 90, 89, 51, 70, 113, and 123. Twelve-time women’s world champion Reanne Evans also begins her season, facing Alfie Davies in her opening match.
The China Open marks a return to the main circuit after a seven-year absence, with four qualifying rounds taking place in Leicester from June 10-14. For Jimmy White, the tournament is yet another opportunity to demonstrate that skill, determination, and love for the game can defy time.
