A prestigious snooker semi-final at the Shanghai Masters descended into chaos when play was suspended for nearly seven minutes due to malfunctioning scoreboards.
The disruption occurred during the 10th frame of the match between Kyren Wilson and Zhao Xintong at the Luwan Gymnasium.
The breakdown left spectators unable to follow the score, prompting Wilson to intervene and request a halt to proceedings.
Both players eventually left the table while tournament officials attempted to resolve the technical difficulties.
Kyren Wilson eventually won the match 10-5
|Getty
The incident created unusual scenes at one of snooker's major tournaments, with the match broadcast continuing despite empty chairs beside the table.
The disruption happened during the evening session before a capacity crowd, with Zhao leading 5-4 in frames.
The reigning world champion had just failed to pot the black whilst ahead 23-0 in the 10th frame, causing audible disappointment from local supporters.
JUST IN: British and Irish Lions miss out on whitewash as Australia win third and final clash of series
Play was halted for almost seven minutes as both players left the arena
|Getty
Upon returning to his seat, Wilson noticed the scoring displays weren't functioning properly. The 2024 world champion immediately called out to his opponent: "Zhao, can we wait? Can we wait, yeah?"
Wilson then addressed the female referee directly, stating: "It's no good. I would rather wait for the scoring to return. It's not good for the fans because the fans can't see the score."
The referee explained that the live television broadcast complicated any potential delay.
READ MORE: Premier League legend announces departure from club after 10 years on English soil
After consulting the tournament director, both competitors were permitted to leave for a brief interval backstage.
The stoppage lasted six-and-a half minutes from Zhao's missed black until Wilson resumed play by potting a red.
Television producers filled the unexpected gap by showing a compilation of 2025's finest shots.
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
World No2 Kyren Wilson will face Ali Carter in the final on Sunday, after he beat Mark Selby
|Getty
Discovery+ commentator David Hendon expressed frustration at the situation, saying: "It's no good this, is it? Let's be honest. This is a big, big match, the players just want to play it."
Co-commentator Alan McManus proposed an alternative solution, suggesting the referee could announce scores verbally to players.
"I must confess, it's easy sitting here. I would say that whichever player has a visit, you tell them 'you are 16-0 behind'," the former Masters champion explained.
The disruption may have affected Zhao's concentration too, as he failed to win another frame after.
From 5-4 in frames to Zhao, Wilson eventually won the game 10-5.
The world No2 faces Englishman Ali Carter in the final on Sunday, after he beat Mark Selby on Friday.