Elliot Slessor took to social media to vent his frustration following a dramatic collapse against reigning world champion Zhao Xintong at the Players Championship.
The 31-year-old from Gateshead had established a commanding 5-2 advantage over the Chinese star before watching his lead evaporate entirely.
Zhao claimed four consecutive frames to complete a remarkable turnaround and secure a 6-5 victory.
The world number 22 was left seething after the match, taking to X to express his displeasure at what he perceived as an unjust outcome.
Slessor attributed his defeat to fortunate bounces going his opponent’s way rather than any shortcomings in his own performance.
In his post on X, Slessor described the sport as “an utter pile of [poo emoji]” adding that what had transpired in his previous four matches was “beyond belief.”
When one supporter suggested he had squandered opportunities to close out the contest, the Englishman fired back: “I’ve split the balls off black and can’t get on a ball for love nor money name me one clear cut chance?”
The fan persisted, pointing out a missed pot in the deciding frame, but Slessor maintained his position, insisting the match “should be over 3 times” before reaching that stage.
Elliot Slessor took to social media to vent his frustration following a dramatic collapse
|GETTY
He described the lucky shots and ball positions as “absolutely scandalous.”
Another supporter urged Slessor not to be so critical of himself, but he remained defiant, he said: “I need my opponents to stop fluking balls and could also do with landing on a ball when I open them.”
Zhao, for his part, acknowledged that he had not performed to his usual standard during the encounter.
The 28-year-old from Xi’an revealed he had only touched down in Britain the day before the match, leaving him struggling with jet lag.
Zhao claimed four consecutive frames to complete a remarkable turnaround and secure a 6-5 victory
|GETTY
He said: “Tonight I didn’t play very well. I’m happy I managed to win.”
Xi’an added that he would aim to improve for the following round.
The world champion praised his opponent’s display in the opening exchanges, noting Slessor’s impressive long potting had given him few opportunities.
Zhao arrives at the Players Championship fresh from his triumph at the World Grand Prix in Hong Kong, where he claimed his maiden ranking title on Chinese soil.
Five quirky facts about snooker | PAHe said: “I’m very happy I won in Hong Kong. It was my first ranking title in China so it was very important for me.
“I have no pressure now so I just want to enjoy every match.”
The world champion will next face 2005 Crucible winner Shaun Murphy in the second round.
Zhao acknowledged the challenge ahead, saying: “Shaun is a very strong player and I know it will be a tough game. To beat Shaun I know you have to play really well.”