Ding Junhui Defends Title as 2025 International Championship Begins
The 2025 International Championship gets underway on Sunday, November 2, with defending champion Ding Junhui aiming to retain his title. The tournament, broadcast live on TNT Sports and streamable on discovery, features a star-studded lineup including Ronnie O'Sullivan, Neil Robertson, Jack Lisowski, and Judd Trump.
The event follows a best-of format, with matches being 11 frames until the semi-finals, which are best of 17, and the final being best of 19. Notable players have already advanced, including Ding Junhui, Judd Trump, and Ronnie O'Sullivan. O'Sullivan, who last played at the Xi'an Grand Prix, returns to action after his quarter-final exit. He opens the tournament against Allan Taylor.
Potential matchups include Jack Lisowski and Judd Trump, who could both face Ding Junhui. Neil Robertson, winner of the 2025 Saudi Snooker Masters, also joins the fray. The first round began on November 2, with several matches played throughout the day.
The 2025 International Championship concludes on Sunday, November 9, promising exciting snooker action. With Ding Junhui aiming to retain his title and top players like Ronnie O'Sullivan, Neil Robertson, Jack Lisowski, and Judd Trump in the mix, fans can expect a thrilling tournament.