…Researched and contributed by Solomon Thomas.
Former world champion Shaun Murphy is set to face Si Jiahui, an opponent whom he criticized 18 months ago, in the first round of the World Snooker Championship.
The Chinese player, who was then an amateur, beat Murphy at the 2021 UK Championship.
However, Murphy was highly critical of Jiahui’s participation in the tournament, saying that it was unfair that an amateur was allowed to play in a professional event.
Murphy’s criticism sparked controversy, but he later apologized for his comments.
Jiahui, who was able to secure his place at the UK Championship due to another player withdrawing, will be making his Crucible debut this year.
Murphy, who won the World Championship in 2005, will have the chance to redeem himself against his Chinese opponent in the upcoming tournament.
The World Snooker Championship will begin this weekend and will feature several other notable matchups.
Defending champion Ronnie O’Sullivan will face Pang Junxu, while world number one Judd Trump will take on Anthony McGill.
Other players to watch include Mark Selby, Neil Robertson, and John Higgins.