Shaun Murphy demolished Xiao Guodong 13-3, securing his passage to the 2026 World Championship quarter-finals with a session to spare. The 2005 champion entered Friday leading 6-2 overnight and then claimed seven of the next eight frames against the world number nine from China. This comprehensive victory immediately sets up the next stage of the Crucible tournament for the veteran.

Murphy, the eighth seed, showcased exceptional form during the decisive afternoon session, compiling breaks of 93, 103, 115, and another 103 among his frame wins. He faces the winner of the all-Chinese contest between Ding Junhui and the reigning world champion, Zhao Xintong, in the last eight. Murphy expressed satisfaction, noting that winning so decisively is rare given the high standard of play.

His next opponent will be determined by a match scheduled for later Friday, which will now be the sole focus of the evening session in the arena. Murphy, who has been runner-up three times since his solitary title, suggested he still believes his best days are still ahead of him. The decisive win confirms a strong return to form for the 43-year-old seeking another title run.

Securing the win early means the schedule has cleared for the delayed second segment of the Barry Hawkins versus Mark Williams match. Murphy’s dominant showing, culminating in seven frames won on Friday afternoon, sends a clear message to the remaining competitors in Sheffield.