Snooker fans have been thoroughly enjoying the exciting Players Championship action so far this week, though some matches have hardly been watched in person. In fact, only one supporter was in attendance for the match between Zhang Anga and Noppon Saengkham on Wednesday afternoon.
The Players Championship has provided plenty of drama already, with Ronnie O’Sullivan returning to the table – having withdrawn from the Welsh Open – to add further spice to an already-competitive tournament.
The quarter-finals are set to take place today (Thursday), with Mark Allen first up against Gary Wilson before all eyes turn to the clash between Mark Selby and O’Sullivan in the later match.
World No. 3 Anda will be hoping that his tie against John Higgins on Friday also draws attention, having battled it out to reach the last eight in front of an incredibly low attendance in Telford.
The Chinese star needed to be at his very best on Tuesday to overcome the challenge of Saengkham and book his spot in the next round, coming from 3-1 down to secure a 6-5 victory over his valiant opponent. repetition of ‘secure’
However, only one person was in attendance to applaud Zhang’s success, footage has shown, despite other matches on Wednesday attracting fair crowds. Although some may have been watching on from the main stand in the upper stages of the arena, having only a solitary person enjoy a last 16 clash in the more immediate seating will certainly provide food for thought for World Snooker Tour.
Zhang enjoyed a memorable 2023, reaching the final of the English Open before losing 9-7 to Judd Trump. He went one better in the International Championship to win his first world ranking title of his career.
The 32-year-old will be keen to retain that momentum at the Players Championship and a victory over Higgins would be a significant sign of intent. Though Zhang will be more than aware of the threat that the likes of Ali Carter holds given that the Englishman knocked Trump out of the competition on Wednesday to book his spot in the semi-finals.
Speaking after his win, Carter said: “I’m very close to my best. I can still improve to be honest, though. I’m working on all of the right things, so I think I can get better. I’m 45 this year and I’m in the top eight of the world, which isn’t bad. I’m going to keep searching for improvement, getting better and winning.”
