What links Manchester United’s Beckham, Ronaldo, Best with Ding Junhui? Chinese snooker ace eyes Crucible crown then Old Trafford wish
- A more relaxed Ding wants to shed burdens in his latest World Championship tilt, and is happy to share pressure with Si Jiahui
- United fan Ding says he is itching to attend a match at Old Trafford – it just depends how long he stays in global tournament
Ding Junhui begins his 18th snooker World Championship on Tuesday still chasing an elusive first crown for China, but with a healthier approach to expectation that includes his beloved Manchester United.
Arguably the second-best player, behind Jimmy White, not to have lifted the global title, Ding remains a genuine contender in his long-time hometown of Sheffield, provided he can keep his overburdened and occasionally tortured younger self at bay.
The 37-year-old cuts a more relaxed figure these days, revealing cheerfully that if he should fall short, he will have more chance of fitting in attending a match at Old Trafford.
He has previously met Sir Alex Ferguson, played snooker with United stars such as Marcus Rashford and David de Gea, and even worked on his fitness with first-team coaches at the club’s Carrington training ground.
This weekend could mean round two of the worlds, or Burnley at home.
