Murphy advances past Zhao to reach World Championship semi-finals

Shaun Murphy secured his place in the World Championship semi-finals with a commanding 13-10 victory over Zhao Xintong at the Crucible in Sheffield. The win ends Zhao's bid to lift the famous trophy and potentially break the so-called Crucible curse that has affected first-time finalists at the venue.

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Murphy's performance was clinical throughout the tie, building a decisive advantage before the final session. The result marks another impressive run at the theatre where he won the title in 2005, defeating the in-form Zhao who had been considered one of the tournament favourites.

The victory sets up a semi-final encounter for Murphy as he continues his pursuit of a second World Championship title. He will face the winner of the other quarter-final match as the tournament progresses toward its conclusion.

Zhao's exit means the Crucible curse remains intact, with no first-time finalist ever winning the title at the venue since its move to Sheffield in 1977.