Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters: Cue drama for Ding Junhui as tip flies off in defeat to Stuart Bingham

Ding Junhui was involved in some late-night drama as he suffered a narrow 5-4 defeat to Stuart Bingham at the Saudi Arabia Masters. The pair were deep into a deciding frame when Ding, holding a 32-0 lead, saw the tip of his cue fly off when playing a shot. Because it cannoned into the pack of reds, a foul was called by referee Olivier Marteel, much to the surprise of both players.

Disaster for Ding as tip falls off in deciding frame, forcing foul and loses match

Video credit: TNT Sports

There was huge drama in Ding Junhui's Saudi Arabia Masters defeat to Stuart Bingham, as the Chinese player's cue tip fell off in the deciding frame.

The pair were locked at 4-4 after a tense battle for a place in the last 16.

But it was Ding who had the upper hand and looked more likely to progress after compiling a break of 32.

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As he looked to add to his points score, Ding potted the black off its spot.

However, in doing so, the tip of his cue flew off, and deflected into the pack of reds.

"Foul," called referee Olivier Marteel, much to the bemusement of Ding.

The official then had to explain the incident, which left the player in disbelief.

"It happens," Marteel continued. "Go to the office. They will sort it out."

He then described what had happened to Bingham, who was still in his chair, stating: "The tip hit another ball, after hitting this ball.

"It hit a red. It just jumped on the bed of the table, and then on to a red, so it's a foul."

It took sometime for Ding to return to auditorium as he had his cue fixed.

However, the foul had left him staring down the barrel of a defeat, as the white had been left in a prime position for Bingham to clean up.

Disaster for Ding as tip falls off in deciding frame, forcing foul and loses match

Video credit: TNT Sports

Ding had also clearly been mulling over what had happened during the pause in proceedings, as he questioned the call of a foul when he returned.

"Yes, I'm sure that your tip hit the red," Marteel was heard to say. "Junhui," he added, while putting his hand over his heart, "I wouldn't say it if it wasn't true."

"Okay, because I didn't see," stated Ding.

"In all honesty," continued Marteel, nodding his head, before the player accepted the decision and walked back to his chair.

Bingham then came to the table, and duly compiled a break of 63 to clinch victory.

It means he will face fellow former world champion Mark Williams in the last 16.

Although the incident had cost Ding a chance of progressing, there was clearly no ill-feeling between the player and the official.

As they shook hands Marteel said to Ding: “So sorry, there’s nothing I can do," to which Ding replied "no worries."

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