Zhao Xintong etched his name into snooker history on Monday evening, becoming the first Chinese and Asian player to win the World Snooker Championship. In a commanding 18–12 victory over three-time champion Mark Williams at Sheffield’s Crucible Theatre, Zhao not only secured the £500,000 top prize but also marked a triumphant return to the sport following a 20-month suspension.
A Remarkable Comeback
At 28, Zhao’s path to the title was anything but conventional. After serving a ban for betting-related offenses—though he was not found guilty of match-fixing—Zhao returned to the sport as an amateur. He navigated four qualifying rounds to reach the main draw, eventually defeating seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan 17–7 in the semi-finals before overcoming Williams in the final.
Dominance at the Crucible
Zhao’s aggressive and fluent style saw him take an early lead in the final, ending the first session 7–1 ahead. Despite a brief resurgence from Williams, who narrowed the gap to 17–12, Zhao maintained his composure, clinching the final frame with an 87 break.
A New Era for Snooker
Williams, 50, praised Zhao’s performance, calling him “the best potter I’ve ever seen.” Zhao’s victory has sparked celebrations in China, where approximately 150 million viewers tuned in to watch the final.
With this win, Zhao becomes only the fourth qualifier to win the World Championship and the first amateur to claim a ranking title. His success is expected to inspire a new generation of snooker players in China and beyond.
As Zhao hoisted the trophy, he reflected on his journey: “I can’t believe what I’ve done. It’s very exciting.”
Zhao’s historic victory not only cements his place among snooker’s elite but also signals a shift in the sport’s global landscape, with China poised to become a dominant force in the years to come.