Lines defeats Zhao 4-2 in English Open first round

Oliver Lines pulled off a stunning upset by defeating world number one Zhao Xintong 4‑2 in the first round of the English Open, a result that surprised fans and pundits alike. The match, held at the English Open venue in early March, saw the young English player maintain a steady rhythm while Zhao struggled to find his usual form.

Lines, who is ranked in the top 30 of the world standings, capitalised on a series of tight frames, securing a crucial break in the third frame that put him ahead. Zhao, the reigning world champion and top seed, fought back in the fourth frame but was unable to regain momentum, and Lines held his lead to close the match. The victory marks a significant milestone for Lines, who has been steadily climbing the rankings, and it sends a clear message that the tournament will be open to surprises.

With the win, Oliver Lines advances to the second round of the English Open, while Zhao Xintong’s campaign ends earlier than expected. The result will likely influence the draw and add an extra layer of intrigue as the tournament progresses.