: In the semi-finals, O'Sullivan delivered a crushing 17–4 defeat to Stephen Hendry . This set a new record for the largest margin of victory in a World Championship semi-final, surpassing Hendry's own 1992 record.
: Despite eventually winning 18–8, O'Sullivan initially trailed 0–5 to Graeme Dott in the first session before staging a massive recovery. World Championship Snooker 2004
: Mark Williams entered as the defending champion but was eliminated in the second round, losing 11–13 to Joe Perry. Notable Records and Debuts : In the semi-finals, O'Sullivan delivered a crushing
: O'Sullivan became only the fourth player to win the World title more than once at the Crucible Theatre. : Mark Williams entered as the defending champion
The 2004 championship remains a significant chapter in the World Snooker Tour , representing the peak of the "modern era" where O'Sullivan began his ascent to matching Stephen Hendry's then-record of seven world titles.