China's highest ranked snooker player Ding Junhui Tuesday was beaten by his compatriot Zhao Xintong in the first round at the China Championship in the city of Guangzhou. 

Twenty-two-year-old Zhao from Shaanxi Province sank the yellow in the corner pocket. After exchanging the first two frames, Zhao missed the red and returned to his seat looking frustrated. However, Ding could not capitalize and Zhao went on to build a 4-3 lead. Ding finally conceded the final frame to lose 5-3 and might drop out of the top 16 after this tournament. 

Earlier, Ding defeated Brandon Sargeant from England at the qualifying before the opening match. This was his fourth appearance at the tournament. 

Given an unsatisfying result, Ding showed his strong will to walk out of the recent bad mood in the interview after the match, and said, "It may be dark, but also may change into a sunny day tomorrow." 

Zhao Xintong said he might leave some chances for Ding in defense, while Ding only made some small mistakes. Ding did not play many games recently, as he had a daughter to take care of. "We professional snooker players can fully understand this,"added Zhao.