Xiao Guodong pulled off a remarkable comeback against Ronnie O'Sullivan at the Champion of Champions tournament in Bolton, fighting back from 3-0 down to claim a stunning 4-3 victory.
The Chinese player, who failed to pot a single ball in the opening three frames, mounted an extraordinary recovery to eliminate the seven-time world champion from the prestigious invitational event.
The defeat marks a shock early exit for O'Sullivan, who was pursuing his fifth Champion of Champions title.
O'Sullivan had initially dominated the match with impressive breaks of 125, 95 and 65 to establish what seemed an insurmountable lead.
However, Xiao staged a remarkable turnaround, producing a series of high-scoring visits including breaks of 130, 88 and 85.
The momentum completely shifted as the Chinese debutant won four consecutive frames to secure an unlikely victory.
Ronnie O'Sullivan was dumped out of the Champion of Champions after giving up a 3-0 lead
Champion of Champions
The dramatic turnaround was even more remarkable considering Xiao hadn't potted a single ball during the opening three frames of the match.
In his post-match interview, Xiao described the victory as his best ever and offered an apology to O'Sullivan.
"I think this is my best ever win and also against Ronnie," he told ITV.
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"I'm sorry to Ronnie because he played so well."
The Chinese player admitted he had given up hope of victory before the fourth frame. "I didn't think I could win this match because in the first three frames I didn't pot one ball," he said.
"I just told myself to enjoy it," Xiao added, acknowledging the supportive crowd who had come to watch O'Sullivan.
O'Sullivan remained defiant following the surprise defeat, dismissing any speculation about his career coming to an end.
"I have been on a roll for 30 years," he said. "It will end when I decide it ends. I've very rarely had an average season since turning pro."
The 48-year-old acknowledged some past distractions but maintained his commitment to the sport.
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Xiao Guodong apologised to Ronnie O'Sullivan after his comeback win
Champion of Champions
"I'll keep playing and keep enjoying it. That's the most important thing for me," O'Sullivan added, with his next challenge being the UK Championship defence later this month.
The victory continues Xiao's impressive recent form, following his triumph at the recent Wuhan Open.
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Ronnie O'Sullivan had taken an incredible lead
Champion of Champions
The Chinese player credited his home victory in Wuhan, achieved in front of friends and family, for boosting his confidence.
"Winning that first event in China, in front of my friends and family, has given me great confidence," said the proud champion.
