Defending champion Neil Robertson has been knocked out in the first round of the World Grand Prix in Hong Kong, losing 5-1 to Jak Jones.
World number three Robertson came into the match in good form after reaching the German Masters semi-finals, but he struggled to repeat that performance. Although he started well, a missed shot allowed Jones to take control and build a 2-0 lead.
Robertson briefly fought back with a strong break to win one frame, but Jones dominated the rest of the match, winning the next three frames to move comfortably into the second round.
The match came just days after Robertson’s heavy defeat by Shaun Murphy in Berlin, and the Australian looked frustrated throughout.
Jones will now face Zhou Yuelong in the second round on Thursday.
Meanwhile, Ronnie O’Sullivan survived a tough test to reach the second round after beating Joe O’Connor 5-3. The seven-time world champion recovered from a slow start, producing key breaks late on to seal the win.
O’Sullivan will play Xiao Guodong next as he continues his push for a record-extending 42nd career title.
