China Open: Ronnie O'Sullivan suffered a shock first round exit

The Rocket was hammered 6-2 despite making a 147 in the match.

It was his 14th maximum in his career but it wasn't enough to inspire him to a comeback against Slessor.

And O'Sullivan was in a reflective mood after the contest as he thanks fans on social media.

He tweeted: "Thanks to all the fans in China for your support, I always enjoy coming here! Nice to get a 147 in the match #14".

The defeat means O'Sullivan has one more chance to become the first player to record six ranking title wins in a season.

The Rocket has had an incredible year so far but his success didn't continue in China.

He has won the English Open, Shanghai Masters, UK Championship, World Grand Prix and Players Championship.

World number 73 Slessor was in top form and took advantage of a below par O'Sullivan in Beijing.

It is the second time the Rocket has suffered a shock defeat to the 23-year-old this season.

Elsewhere in the first round there were wins for Ding Junhui, Mark Selby and Kyren Wilson.

O'Sullivan has won 33 ranking titles overall and is level with Stephen Hendry, Ding Junhui and Mark Selby in winning five major titles in one season.

The China Open is the last event before the prestigious World Championship in Sheffield.

That event starts on Saturday, April 21.