Overview

• Defending champion Kyren Wilson was eliminated in a first-round thriller, losing 10–9 to Lei Peifan, continuing the 'Crucible Curse.'
• Seven-time champion Ronnie O’Sullivan made a commanding return, defeating Ali Carter 10–4 with five century breaks in the first round.
• A record ten Chinese players, led by Ding Junhui, Zhao Xintong, and Xiao Guodong, have qualified, highlighting the sport's growing global presence.
• The tournament offers a £2.395 million prize fund, with £500,000 awarded to the winner and £200,000 to the runner-up.
• UK viewers can access free BBC coverage, while international audiences rely on subscription-based WST Play streaming.