Boiko Storms To Second Round
Ukrainian 17-year-old Iulian Boiko thrashed Pakistan’s Muhammad Asif 10-2 to make the second round of Cazoo World Championship qualifying at the English Institute of Sport in Sheffield.
Boiko’s World Championship qualifying debut came back in 2020, when he became the youngest ever player to compete in the event, aged 14. Months later he joined the professional circuit and was snooker’s youngest professional. However, Boiko’s time on the tour ended in relegation last season.
Competing as an amateur, Boiko looked assured against Asif, firing in breaks of 55, 100, 126 and 86 during the tie. Today’s impressive victory sees Boiko earn a meeting with Stuart Carrington in the second round.
Given the ongoing war in his home country, Boiko feels especially motivated to try and earn a place at the Crucible and fly the flag for Ukraine.
Boiko said: “I’m dreaming big. I really want to make it to the Crucible and since I am now an amateur I don’t feel like I have that much pressure. My next opponent needs points to stay on tour and that will make a difference.
“I am so proud to represent my country, Ukraine, everywhere. I want to raise the Ukrainian flag in the Crucible. Getting there would be a dream and I really hope play to my best standard.”
Austria’s Florian Nuessle stormed to the second round with a 10-2 win over Irishman Michael Judge. The win sees Nuessle progress to face Si Jiahui in the next round, while Judge is relegated from the circuit.
Sheffield’s Adam Duffy earned a narrow 10-8 win over Billy Castle to progress and will now face a tricky assignment against Welshman Jak Jones in the second round.
Cypriot Michael Georgiou beat China’s Peng Yisong 10-4, while Pakistan’s Asjad Iqbal beat Jenson Kendrick 10-3.
Iulian Boiko needs to win four matches to qualify for the Crucible and regain professional status.
He's won the first, defeating Muhammad Asif 10-2!#CazooWorldChampionship
— World Snooker Tour (@WeAreWST) April 4, 2023