NEIL ROBERTSON will not be at the Crucible for the first time for 20 years after losing on Judgement Day.
The Australian, 42, had to go through the rigmarole of qualification at the English Institute of Sport in Sheffield after slipping out of the world’s top 16 during the season.
AFPNeil Robertson has been knocked out of Crucible qualifying[/caption]
But the left-hander was unable to advance to the main draw as he was defeated 10-9 by Welshman Jamie Jones.
It will be a massive blow for the Thunder from Down Under, who lifted the world crown in 2010 and is regarded among the elite stars.
He had been ever-present since his debut in 2005 but he will spend next week at home in Cambridgeshire and misses out on sufficient money and ranking points.
Snooker fans were shocked by the veteran’s exit as they flocked to social media.
One posted: “Can’t believe the downfall of Neil Robertson used to be well class now in a battle to qualify off Crucible.”
A second commented: “Neil Robertson beaten and not going to the Crucible WOW.”
A third wrote: “Neil Robertson .”
A fourth said: “Neil Robertson not going to the Crucible!”
A fifth stated: “Neil Robertson not playing at the crucible! Can you believe it? Pretty much sums up his season.”
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Another added: “The Crucible without Neil Robertson is going to be odd isn’t it!”
Jones, the No.41 seed, came from 8-5 down and 9-8 behind, sealing his progression with a match-winning break of 60.
The Neath potter said: “The longer matches suit me. I never give up. I was up against it but tried to hit him early.
“It was such a tough game. It’s one of the biggest wins of my career. Neil buries me every time I play him. I don’t have good memories from the past.
“I wish I could bottle this and use it during the season. Whatever it is about this tournament, it brings out the best in me.”