Shaun Murphy will face Ronnie O'Sullivan in the last 16 of the World Open after both players advanced through their respective matches. Murphy, reflecting on his recent form, said he's been 'playing well for a season or two' despite facing 'superheroes' on the snooker circuit. The seven-time world champion O'Sullivan holds a 14-4 career winning record over Murphy heading into their matchup.

O'Sullivan dismissed critics who question his practice habits, insisting he 'prepares harder than probably any other player.' The Rocket, who has said returning to tournament-winning form would be his greatest achievement, lost their last meeting 4-0 in November. Meanwhile, world number one Judd Trump also progressed with a 5-2 victory over Jackson Page, while reigning world champion Zhao Xintong beat Sam Craigie 5-1.

Other notable results saw Kyren Wilson defeat Allan Taylor 5-1, and Hossein Vafaei stage a comeback from 2-0 down to beat Mark Williams 5-2. Stuart Bingham and Jack Lisowski missed opportunities to break into the world's top 16, losing their matches and failing to qualify automatically for the World Championship. The tournament continues to showcase snooker's elite as players build momentum toward the sport's most prestigious events.