Well, it's that time of year again! The has returned, with 32 of the globe's best players set to fight it out for the crown across a gruelling two weeks of action.

Much to the surprise of many, has committed to playing in this year's edition, which would keep alive his imperious record of appearing at every World Championship since his debut. However, the Rocket put the tournament organisers on red alert when he hinted he could still pull out of the tournament prior to his opening match next week.

As per tradition, defending champion got the tournament underway, but it didn't go to plan for the world No.2 on opening day.