It’s the 169th maximum break that has been professionally made.
Xiao Guodong compiled his maiden 147 break in the deciding frame of a 4-3 victory over Fraser Patrick as the Scottish Open qualifiers got under way on Friday.
The Chinese competitor had already contributed a run of 108 to establish a 3-1 lead against Patrick, only for his lowly ranked opponent to fight back and force the final frame shoot out.
It was then when Xiao dug deep in terrific fashion by following all 15 reds with blacks, before duly adding the colours in succession to complete the magnificent 147 break.
Xiao’s maximum effort represents the third this season after previous knocks were made by John Higgins and Ali Carter in the British Open.
While special in terms of a personal achievement on the baize, the 32 year-old will probably be as equally delighted to simply make it through to the last 64 of the Scottish Open, which will take place later this year in December.
Every player except the top 16 in the world rankings must undergo the preliminary round in the coming days at the Metrodome in Barnsley.
Another early winner from day one’s action was Lee Walker, who took advantage of Zhou Yuelong’s withdrawal to see off replacement John Astley with a 4-1 scoreline.
Championship League winner David Gilbert and British Open runner-up Gary Wilson are among the other players who are set to participate later today.
Live coverage is available on the Eurosport Player and via the Matchroom.Live streaming service.
Click here to view the draw (Times: CET)
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What would be interesting to know is how many of those 169 maximums have come in a decider? I can only think of three off the top of my head.
Not sure to be honest. Can also think of three, including this one. Hendry against Ronnie, and Ronnie against Selby being the others. I’m sure some of the stats experts on Twitter will know the answer.