Neil Robertson is set to receive a hefty fine for prematurely conceding a frame during his World Snooker Championship match against Pang Junxu. The Australian, a former Crucible victor, mistakenly ended the second frame early due to a miscalculation while trailing by 47 points with three reds still on the table. Robertson’s error will cost him a four-figure sum, as previous fines this season have escalated the penalty to £2,000.
Referee Terry Camilleri warned Robertson, who initially seemed confused before realizing his mistake of being 57 points behind. Commentators pointed out the unusual blunder, with Ken Doherty remarking on Robertson’s uncommon error and Joe Perry expressing surprise at his uncharacteristic move.
Despite the mishap, Robertson went on to secure a 10-6 win over Pang Junxu and advance to face John Higgins in the quarter-finals. Robertson expressed relief at avoiding a matchup with Ronnie O’Sullivan, criticizing O’Sullivan’s use of chalk on the table and calling for its ban due to its disruptive effects during play. He highlighted the challenges posed by the chalk and advocated for its removal from professional snooker tournaments.