Zhao Xintong Becomes First Chinese World Snooker Champion

In a momentous occasion for the sport of snooker in China, 28-year-old Zhao Xintong secured his first World Championship title early Tuesday, overcoming British veteran Mark Williams with a score of 18-12 at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield. This victory not only celebrates Zhao's skills as a player but also represents a groundbreaking achievement, as he becomes the first Chinese individual to claim one of snooker’s premier titles.

The foundation for Zhao’s success was established back in 2005, when Ding Junhui became the first Chinese player to win the China Open at the age of 18. Ding’s accomplishment inspired many young players, including Zhao, who decided to pursue snooker after witnessing Ding’s triumphant moment on his own birthday. Initially drawn to soccer and table tennis, Zhao’s passion shifted to snooker, leading his parents to convert a bedroom into a billiards room for him to practice extensively.

Zhao's talent blossomed quickly, and by age 16, he was accepted into the renowned World Snooker Academy in Sheffield. His capabilities were recognized by many in the snooker community, including Ding Junhui's father, who acknowledged Zhao’s potential. In 2015, Zhao made his mark by qualifying for the World Snooker Professional Championship, capturing the attention of snooker legends like Ronnie O'Sullivan.

His career took off in 2021 when he won the UK Championship, becoming China’s second world-class snooker player after Ding, and the youngest Triple Crown champion from the post-90s generation. However, his journey faced challenges in 2023 when he became embroiled in a match-fixing scandal, resulting in a 20-month suspension. Zhao, expressing deep regret, chose to focus on intense training during his time away from the sport.

By September 2024, Zhao returned to the competitive scene as an amateur, competing in European Q-Tour events to accumulate ranking points. He showcased incredible determination by winning four consecutive titles within a short span, achieving two maximum 147 breaks, and ultimately earning a wildcard for the World Championship. In a remarkable semifinal, he defeated the seven-time champion Ronnie O'Sullivan, becoming only the second Chinese player, alongside Ding, to reach the World Championship final.

The final match against the 50-year-old Williams marked a historic occasion as it set the record for the largest age disparity in a World Championship final. Ding Junhui reflected on Zhao’s achievement as a shared dream realized for their generation, emphasizing the unstoppable rise of Chinese snooker. O’Sullivan praised Zhao’s performance, while Williams hailed him as the new star in the sport, conveying his joy in witnessing Zhao's success. For Zhao, this victory is not merely about personal achievement but also a testament to the power of perseverance and resilience.