1Fore7: Neil Robertson lays out golf plans amid International Championship in Nanjing

Fortunately for snooker fans, the Australian is not planning to hang up his cue just yet, having beaten Jiang Jun 6-2 to progress at the 2026 International Championship in Nanjing, China.

But after his opening-round victory, the former world champion turned his attention to the golf course, admitting he would love to test himself against the professionals - following in the footsteps of snooker peer Shaun Murphy who attempted to qualify for the Open Championship in 2019.

"I'm 44 now, so potentially the Seniors Open, I don't know," Robertson said.

"It's a bit of fairyland talk but something to strive for."

With shorter days and a demanding snooker schedule limiting his time on the course, Robertson has resorted to some unconventional practice methods to keep his swing in check.

The 26-time ranking event winner recently posted a video on Instagram showing him hitting a small orange ball with an eight-iron off a carefully folded hotel towel in Nanjing.

Currently playing off a seven handicap, Robertson revealed he always carries a golf club with him to squeeze in some extra practice whenever possible.

"It's a shame the end of the golf season happened now because I was on the verge of cutting my handicap down to five or possibly four," he said.

"The ultimate goal is scratch.

"The winter season is like the off-season where you can really improve your game and get a lot of gains on other people."

For now, however, Robertson will have to put his golfing ambitions to one side as he turns his attention back to the snooker table.

Following a disappointing first-round exit at the Northern Ireland Open, the world number three will be eager to build momentum in Nanjing, where a stacked field awaits.

World number one Zhao Xintong and reigning world champion Wu Yize are among those set to feature in an exciting Sunday evening session in the Far East.

Robertson’s next assignment on the green baize is an intriguing last 32 meeting with Chinese teenager Wang Xinbo on Monday. The 18-year-old rookie eliminated David Gilbert in qualifying several weeks ago before seeing off current Championship League and British Open champion Jak Jones at the main venue on Saturday.

To view the full draw, results, schedule, and other information from the 2026 International Championship, visit our tournament information centre here.