Kyren Wilson became the 20th victim of the 'Crucible Curse', having been dumped out of the World Championship in the opening round by Lei Peifan. The quip references the that no first-time champion has ever returned to successfully defend their crown at the Crucible since snooker's grandest stage moved to the venue in 1977. 

Wilson had got off to a shaky start against the Chinese potter, falling 2-0 behind after the first two frames, but he fought back to put himself 6-3 up at the interval, with the second round within touching distance. However, it was during the evening session that things fell apart for last year's Crucible king, as Lei won six frames in a row to go within one of victory.

The world No.2, not wanting to go down without a fight, did stage what looked like being a miraculous recovery to tie the game up at nine frames apiece. But, with the eyes of the snooker world watching, debutant Lei delivered a monumental break of 66 in the decider to dump Wilson out and ensure the 'Crucible Curse' lives on for another year. 

Speaking after his early departure, Wilson stated: “Obviously it’s really hard to take. I’ve got such a strong record at the Crucible and I was nowhere near my best but it still took a 10-9 to beat me. It’s been a really long season and I’ve done so much. I’ve never been stretched so much in all my life but I’m proud of the way I’ve handled it and I’m proud of the success I’ve had as well.”

Wilson is in good company when it comes to debut champions falling short of defending their title. All of the modern greats, such as Ronnie O'Sullivan, John Higgins and Stephen Hendry, missed out on back-to-back titles at the first time of asking. 

But, when asked about the curse and whether he believes in its validity, Wilson wasn't convinced. He replied: “It’s obviously been built up into something it’s not, because other players have gone on to win it. I’m sure it’ll be broken at some point but unfortunately I won’t be that person.”

The action from the Crucible continues on Sunday, as last year's runner-up Jak Jones gets his campaign underway, with Mark Allen also in action for the first time.