Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Ken Doherty inflicted a nightmare Crucible debut on rising youngster Barry Hawkins when he cruised into the second round of the World Championship in Sheffield yesterday.
Hawkins, ranked No 29 in the world, has made rapid strides over the last couple of years to secure a top-10 place for next season, but will quickly want to forget his first appearance on snooker's biggest stage.
There was no sign of the trauma ahead when Hawkins won the first frame of the match, but Doherty then reeled off 10 in succession to prevail 10-1 and book a possible meeting with Matthew Stevens.
The Irishman did not need to do anything spectacular, his highest break of the match being a mere 57 as the Kent left-hander failed to produce the form that has taken him to two semi-finals this season.
"I had two bad days at the office," the 26-year-old from Beckenham said. "At first I was a bit nervous, but after that it was nothing to do with playing at the Crucible. I just couldn't perform and I can't explain why. I squandered the chances I had and it's a bad place to be when you start missing.
"Ken had nobody to beat and I'm gutted after such a good season to have performed like that," Hawkins added. "But plenty of better players than me have been bashed up. I can't wait to get home and have a pint."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments