Defending Welsh Open champion Mark Selby suffered a shock first-round exit, losing 4-3 to China's Jiang Jun at Venue Cymru in Llandudno. The two-time Welsh Open winner appeared in control after building a 3-1 lead with impressive breaks of 123 and 137.

However, 20-year-old Jiang mounted a remarkable comeback, rattling off three consecutive frames to secure the upset. The young Chinese player showcased his talent with half-century breaks of 52 and 65, marking his first appearance in the main draw of the prestigious tournament. This defeat marks the third time in five years that Selby has fallen in the opening round of the Welsh Open.

Welsh players enjoyed a successful day overall, with Jak Jones, Dylan Emery, and Mark Williams all advancing to the second round. Williams, the last Welsh player to win the title in 1999, defeated Michael Holt 4-2. Meanwhile, Robbie Williams knocked out 13th seed Si Jiahui, while Barry Hawkins survived a tense encounter against David Lilley to progress.