Northern Ireland's Mark Allen produced a gutsy display at Alexandra Palace, fighting through a debilitating bout of food poisoning to secure a commanding 6-2 victory over Welsh legend Mark Williams and book his place in the quarter-finals of the Masters.
Allen's Remarkable Comeback Against Illness
The 2018 champion revealed he had spent the preceding week confined to bed, severely hampering his preparation for the prestigious tournament. Despite his physical setback, Allen won five frames in a row to turn the match decisively in his favour after the early exchanges.
Speaking to the BBC after his triumph, Allen admitted the circumstances were far from ideal. "I prepare properly for these events, but I couldn't prepare for this at all as I've been lying in bed all week with food poisoning," he said. His strategy was simple: "I just thought 'go out there and give my best'. I wouldn't have had much left if it had got much closer."
Zhao Xintong Cruises Through on Debut
In the day's other match, China's Zhao Xintong made a spectacular start to his Masters campaign. The world and UK champion, seeking the third leg of snooker's coveted triple crown, delivered a masterclass in break-building. He reeled off four consecutive half-centuries on his way to a comfortable 6-2 win over England's Gary Wilson.
The 28-year-old was visibly buoyed by the support at the iconic London venue. "I could see a lot of fans supporting me so I feel very confident and I didn't want to lose," Zhao told the BBC. This victory marked his first ever win at Alexandra Palace.
Quarter-Final Line-Up Takes Shape
Allen now awaits the winner of the match between Judd Trump and Ding Junhui, which is scheduled for Wednesday. Zhao Xintong's victory means he is the third Chinese player to reach the last eight at this year's tournament. He will face the winner of the tie between Scotland's John Higgins and England's Barry Hawkins, who play on Tuesday night.
The opening day's play at the Masters set a dramatic tone, blending resilience in the face of adversity with sheer, unadulterated talent, promising an enthralling week of snooker in north London.
