English Open: Major shock as 'world champion' Wu Yize eliminated in first round

The 2026 English Open snooker tournament is underway in Brentwood, England, and the early days have already produced a major shock. Wu Yize, introduced with the title of 'world champion', surprisingly lost 4-1 to the lesser-known Liam Davies. The match was played under a best-of-7 format, which is known for producing upsets, but few expected such an early exit for a player carrying such high expectations. From the start, Davies showed incredible confidence. He won three consecutive frames to take a 3–0 lead, including an impressive century break of 105 points. Wu Yize managed to win only one frame before Davies closed out the match 4-1. This result surprised many fans, as Wu was expected to go deep in the tournament. However, as I often say, 'Numbers don't tell the whole story, but they know where the story begins.' And Davies' 105 break highlighted a fine performance while also raising questions about Wu's true form in major events. While Wu Yize disappointed, other top players performed steadily. Kyren Wilson, the 2026 world champion, defeated Mark Selby in a tense match that went to a deciding frame. Selby had just been runner-up at the British Open last week, showing strong form, but Wilson had the composure to win. This is a positive sign for Wilson's title defence at the English Open. Zhou Yuelong also impressed by defeating fellow Chinese player Yuan Sijun 4-1. In that match, Zhou made a break of 141 points, one of the highest of the tournament so far. This shows Zhou is in excellent form and could be a contender for the title. Meanwhile, Ding Junhui easily beat Joe O'Connor 4-1, setting up a highly anticipated quarter-final against Kyren Wilson. Judd Trump, who has not won a title in seven months, had a tough match against Anthony McGill, winning 4-3. This suggests he is not yet at his peak form, but beating a tough opponent like McGill is a step forward. Trump will face Ali Carter in the quarter-finals, a match full of potential drama. From a tactical perspective, the best-of-7 format always carries upset risks for top players. 'A major event doesn't end when the whistle blows; it begins when the lights go out.' Indeed, with Wu Yize eliminated early, opportunities open up for others. The quarter-final between Ding Junhui and Kyren Wilson will be the main attraction, as Ding seeks to regain form and Wilson is the reigning world champion. If Ding can beat Wilson, it would be a strong signal of his comeback. Additionally, Zhou Yuelong's break of 141 shows he is having a great tournament. If he maintains this form, he could reach the final and contend for the title. However, the road ahead is long, and the pressure of fan expectations could affect his mental game. Overall, this year's English Open is proving to be exciting and full of surprises. Wu Yize's early exit serves as a reminder that in sports, reputation cannot replace actual form. The remaining players all have equal opportunities, and the tournament promises more drama. Can Ding Junhui beat Wilson? Will Trump rediscover his brilliance? Or will Zhou Yuelong become a new star? The answers will come in the following days.