Shaun Murphy expressed strong dissatisfaction towards Matchroom regarding the scheduling of the Champion of Champions event held on Monday. The frustration stemmed from his recent participation in China’s International Championship quarter-finals merely four days prior.

Having only returned from Nanjing, Murphy was unexpectedly placed in the tournament’s opening match, resulting in a disappointing 4-1 loss to Lei Peifan. The 43-year-old was taken aback when he discovered his Monday fixture while en route back from China, learning of the event’s order on the morning of the competition.

Following his defeat to Lei, Murphy vented his frustrations over the group arrangements to ITV4, emphasizing his professional conduct and respect for the game. He criticized Matchroom for what he deemed as disrespectful treatment, highlighting the lack of communication and the untimely scheduling that disrupted his travel plans.

Murphy’s discontent contrasts with other players like Mark Williams, Mark Allen, and Alfie Burden, who did not partake in the International Championship and are slated to compete in the Champion of Champions later in the week, avoiding the immediate opening day challenge faced by Murphy.

In response to Murphy’s outburst, Matchroom issued a statement acknowledging his concerns and emphasizing their commitment to prioritizing player satisfaction and event prestige. The organization explained that group assignments are based on seeding for transparency and fairness, promising to consider feedback for future improvements in scheduling.

Elsewhere on the opening day of the Champion of Champions, Judd Trump secured a 4-1 victory over Bai Yulu, advancing to face Lei in the subsequent match. The tournament continues with a lineup of exciting matches featuring top players like Kyren Wilson, Jack Lisowski, Mark Selby, and more in the following days.