Solid start by favourite Williams

8220;I know that a lot of people are talking about me winning the title, but I won8217;t let that affect me,8221; he said.

Former champions Stephen Hendry and Steve Davis were struggling in first round matches against Paul Hunter and Joe Perry respectively.

Hendry, who suffered a first round defeat against Jimmy White last year, saw Hunter take the first two frames.

The Scot clawed his way back to edge ahead but England8217;s Hunter claimed the last frame of the session to cut Hendry8217;s advantage to 5-4.

Davis was in a worse position, with Championship newcomer and English compatriot Perry establishing a commanding a 7-2 overnight lead.

James Wattana of Thailand won a landmark match 10-8.

Theopening round match between Wattana and Hong Kong prospect Marco Fu was the first all-Asian encounter in the World Finals.

It was keenly contested as Fu fought back after trailing 5-4 overnight to lead 8-7.

But Fu, ranked 377th in the world at the start of the season, was unable to sustain his challenge.

Wattana compiled a break of 136 on his way to claim the three frames he required for victory.

The Thai admitted it had been a tough battle. 8220;I just couldn8217;t get away from him,8221; he said. 8220;Marco is such a good player and there was a lot of pressure on me.8221;

World No.16 Mark King of England held off a determined challenge from gritty Welshman Darren Morgan to win 10-8.