Iran’s Hossein Vafaei became the first qualifier to beat a seeded player at the 2026 World Snooker Championship at the Crucible, after a dominant 10-3 win over China’s Si Jiahui.
Si, a 2023 semi-finalist, started strongly and led 3-1, but Vafaei took complete control of the match, winning nine straight frames. He produced several strong breaks, including 81, 105, and 78, while restricting Si to just 64 points across a long stretch of play.
The 31-year-old, ranked 32nd in the world, said the win was special as he now prepares to face world number one Judd Trump in the next round. He described Trump as a “friend” but also acknowledged the challenge ahead against the top-ranked player.
Vafaei’s victory ended a perfect start for seeded players in the tournament and ensured at least one qualifier would break through in the opening round at the Crucible.
