Another day, another comeback for Ding Junhui.
The Chinese defending champion survived another major scare at the Hong Rui Ma Yushan World Open, coming from behind to beat his compatriot Yuan Sijun 5-3 on Tuesday night.
Ding lost the first two frames but broke back to win the third. After the 18-year-old Yuan became more aggressive and won the fourth, Ding regained his form from the fifth and went on to take the match by winning four frames in a row.
Ding's first baby is expected to be born in the next few days and the world No. 6 said that he is waiting for the call "24 hours a day" in case his wife goes into labor while he is in Yushan.
Ding also battles back from the brink of a shock early exit on Monday by beating James Wattana. /VCG Photo
Ding also battles back from the brink of a shock early exit on Monday by beating James Wattana. /VCG Photo
Meanwhile, world No.1 Mark Selby and Kyren Wilson both enjoyed victories in the first round.
The first six frames were shared between Selby and Elliot Slessor. Slessor came from 3-1 down to 3-3 with a top break of 105, but Selby won two consecutive frames to secure a tough 5-3 victory over his opponent.
Yuan Sijun wasted a glorious opportunity to beat defending champion Ding Junhui. /Official Yushan World Open Photo
Yuan Sijun wasted a glorious opportunity to beat defending champion Ding Junhui. /Official Yushan World Open Photo
"I didn't play well today, Elliot will be disappointed not to win," admitted 35-year-old Selby. "I got through and I can only improve now. I have played Elliot a few times in practice so I know what a good player he is. Hopefully it will be a good season ahead for me," he added.
"I always set myself goals, and to try to stay on top of the rankings is one of them. It will be hard because of what I have to defend. I'm still in the tournament so I've still got my lead. Hopefully I can keep the number one spot for as long as possible," said Selby.
Ding's first baby is expected to be born in the next few days. /Official Yushan World Open Photo
Ding's first baby is expected to be born in the next few days. /Official Yushan World Open Photo
Wilson took an easy 5-1 lead over Paul S. Davison to go through the last 32.
The week-long competition offers a total prize of 735,000 pounds with the champion pocketing 150,000.
(With input from agencies)