Brief

Ronnie O’Sullivan knocked out by Hong Kong qualifier Cheung Ka Wai in Belfast

The 50‑year‑old champion fell to the 110th‑ranked Hong Kong player after a 138‑point clearance and a series of missed shots.

By Felo News Desk · Published Mon, 19 Oct 2026 22:55:06 GMT

Ronnie O’Sullivan was eliminated in the opening round of the Northern Ireland Open in Belfast, losing 4‑3 to Hong Kong qualifier Cheung Ka Wai, according to two Independent reports published on 19 October 2026.

What happened

The match began with O’Sullivan dropping the first frame. He then recovered, taking the next three frames with breaks of 56, 138 and 72. Cheung rallied, winning the fifth frame after O’Sullivan left a red dangling and Cheung compiled an 88‑point break, followed by a 77‑point clearance to level the match at 3‑3. In the deciding frame, O’Sullivan missed a blue ball, allowing Cheung to clinch the victory 4‑3.

What the reports add

Both Independent articles note that Cheung, ranked 110th in the world, achieved his first main‑draw knockout win at a ranking event. They also mention that O’Sullivan’s 138 total clearance came in the second frame, and that the loss came in only his third tournament of the season and his first UK match since his 13‑12 defeat to John Higgins at the World Championship in April.

What was said

The Independent quoted the Press Association describing O’Sullivan’s defeat as a “shock loss”. No direct comments from the players or officials were included in the reports.

How it came about

O’Sullivan’s recent form has been limited; he has played only three tournaments this season, with his previous UK appearance ending in a narrow loss to John Higgins in Sheffield. Cheung, who joined the professional tour in 2024, had previously recorded main‑draw victories only in the Championship League. The match took place against the backdrop of heightened attention on Northern Ireland sporting events, following the recent ban on the Drumcree parade (Felo coverage).

Key facts

Ronnie O’Sullivan lost 4‑3 to Cheung Ka Wai in the first round of the Northern Ireland Open. (independent.co.uk)
Cheung Ka Wai is ranked 110th in the world and achieved his first main‑draw knockout win at a ranking event. (independent.co.uk)
O’Sullivan made a 138 total clearance in the second frame before missing crucial shots later in the match. (independent.co.uk)