Ding Reaches China Final

China’s Ding has already won four ranking crowns this term and victory against Neil Robertson tomorrow in the best of 19 final in Beijing would see him match Stephen Hendry’s record of five, set in 1990/91.

 

It will be the third time that Ding and Robertson have met in a major final – Robertson winning 9-4 at the 2009 Grand Prix and Ding winning 4-3 at last year’s PTC Grand Final.

 

Dunn was appearing in the first ranking semi-final of his 23-year career but was no match for his opponent. Ding was well short of his best, but breaks of 58, 40, 42, 49, 48 and 54 helped him win all six frames.

 

“I have kept my momentum going through the week,” said Ding. “I have played very carefully during every match.

 

“I think Robertson has been playing well. I have been watching his matches this week and I don’t think he has played badly. He’s a much better a match player than most of the others.

 

“I hope to play a great match tomorrow, doing well in both potting and safety. I wish to lift the trophy but I’m not putting a lot pressure on myself. No matter what the result, I’ve had a fantastic season so I’m not worried. I will go into tomorrow’s final well prepared.”

 

Dunn said: “I was very nervous. I just went out there to enjoy it and I did my best. I haven’t let myself down all week, it’s very difficult out there. Everybody’s watching and the pressure just built and built. I should have made a good start and put pressure on him but it was always going to be a tough game.

 

“I’m going to compete on the tour next year because my ranking’s moved up a lot this week. I’m 42 now, not getting any younger. Tonight I didn’t particularly enjoy the result but I enjoyed it out there. The fans were fantastic. I really expected the fans to be against me but to be honest they have been very kind to me.”

Ding Junhui white-washed Mike Dunn 6-0 at the China Open to boost his hopes of a record-equalling fifth ranking title this season.

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