On October 24, 2023, the tournament for the quarterfinal spots at the 2024 Northern Ireland Open saw fierce competition among the top 16 players. Ultimately, out of four Chinese competitors, only Pang Junxu advanced to the next stage.

In the round of 16, Pang faced Martin O’Donnell, who is ranked 53rd in the world. Although Pang only managed to score one break of over 50 points, the 24-year-old Chinese player showcased his precise long-potting and consistent performance throughout the match, giving his opponent no chances and winning decisively with a score of 4-0.

Young player Mai Haolong previously demonstrated impressive form, causing upsets by defeating world number 11 Ali Carter and world number 22 Chris Wakelin. However, in his quarterfinal match against world number 7 Mark Williams, Mai found himself at a 0-2 disadvantage. Although he fought back to tie the score, a crucial mistake at a pivotal moment allowed Williams to emerge victorious with a final score of 4-2.

In two other matches, veteran Tian Pengfei faced world number 71 Louis Heathcote and, after leading 2-1, was ultimately defeated 4-2. Meanwhile, rising star Lei Peifan could not maintain his earlier momentum and was eliminated 4-1 by world number 35 Elliot Slessor.

As the competition progresses, Pang Junxu will next face Australian player Neil Robertson, who is ranked 16th in the world, in the quarterfinals.