World Snooker Championship: Kyren Wilson knocked out after first-round defeat to Lei Peifan

Kyren Wilson suffered a shock defeat on the first day of World Snooker Championship; Wilson beaten 10-9 by China’s Lei Peifan on Saturday; Wilson is sixth first-time champion to lose in first round of their title defence

Kyren Wilson’s title defence is over after he was stunned by China’s Lei Peifan on the opening day of the 2025 World Snooker Championship.

Wilson had a 6-3 lead after the first session but when the players returned for the second session, Lei won six consecutive frames to put himself on the brink of victory.

Despite a late comeback from Wilson forcing a deciding frame, Lei held his nerve to book his place in round two with a 10-9 win.

It means snooker’s ‘Crucible curse’ continues for another year as a first-time world champion has never retained their title since the tournament moved to Sheffield in 1977.

Lei Peifan has booked his place in round two

Wilson came into the tournament as one of the favourites after winning four ranking events this season, two more than any other player.

The 33-year-old is the sixth first-time champion to lose in the first round of their title defence after Steve Davis, Dennis Taylor, Graeme Dott, Neil Robertson and Luca Brecel.

“Obviously it’s really hard to take,” said Wilson. “I’ve got such a strong record at the Crucible and I was nowhere near my best, but it still took a 10-9 to beat me.

“It’s been a really long season and I’ve done so much. I’ve never been stretched so much in all my life but I’m proud of the way I’ve handled it and I’m proud of the success I’ve had as well.”

Reflecting on becoming the latest victim of the ‘curse’, Wilson added: “It’s obviously been built up into something it’s not, because other players have gone on to win it. I’m sure it’ll be broken at some point, but unfortunately, I won’t be that person.”