Selby Stages Thrilling Comeback as Robertson Dominates in World Grand Prix Showdown

Mark Selby showcased his trademark resilience, fighting back from the brink of defeat to secure a 4-3 victory over Jackson Page and advance to the last 16 of the World Grand Prix in Hong Kong.

The world number three found himself trailing 3-2 after Welshman Page produced a commanding break of 85 to move within one frame of victory. However, when Page missed a long red in the sixth frame, Selby capitalized on the opportunity, constructing a crucial 75-37 win to force a decider. The four-time world champion then held his nerve to close out the match, demonstrating why he remains one of snooker’s most formidable competitors.

Reflecting on his performance, Selby acknowledged the challenge he faced against Page. “Jackson played well to go 3-2 up, and I was just hanging on,” he told the World Snooker Tour website. “He had a good chance to win 4-2, but luckily he let me back into it. I will need to improve in the next round.”

Elsewhere in the morning session at Kowloon’s Kai Tak Arena, Neil Robertson delivered a dominant 4-0 victory over Yuan Sijun, powered by impressive breaks of 97 and 67. The Australian, who recently switched to a titanium ferrule ring on his cue tip, believes the adjustment has rekindled his love for the game.

“As soon as I wake up, I can’t wait to practice—it’s the first time I’ve felt this way in over 20 years,” Robertson revealed, adding that his training sessions have been particularly exciting since making the change. “I still need to adapt to different playing conditions, but once I do, I’ll be playing some fun snooker.”

Meanwhile, Xiao Guodong also pulled off a thrilling comeback, recovering from a 2-0 deficit to edge past Jak Jones 4-3. Despite Jones’ three half-century breaks, Xiao responded with two century clearances to seal victory.

In another closely contested match, China’s Lei Peifan delivered a strong performance, crafting a break of 107 in a 4-2 triumph over Elliot Slessor. Lei will now face compatriot Xiao Guodong for a place in the quarter-finals.

With the competition heating up, the upcoming rounds promise more high-stakes drama as the world’s best battle for the prestigious title.