In a remarkable moment that will undoubtedly be etched into the annals of snooker history, Zhao Xintong has emerged as a national hero for China after defeating seasoned player Mark Williams in the World Snooker Championship finals. This victory not only signifies Zhao’s ascent as the first player from China to claim the prestigious title, but it also marks a landmark achievement for the sport in the nation. Snooker, which has grown exponentially in popularity within China, largely owes its momentum to the inspiring performances of Ding Junhui, a former finalist in the Crucible in 2016 and a multiple-time winner of the Triple Crown.
Zhao’s journey to the top has been a captivating narrative filled with early promise, setbacks, and a resilient comeback. Having demonstrated his exceptional snooker skills as a teenager, he garnered attention for his victories over seasoned professionals. His career took a significant turn when he clinched the UK Championship in 2021; however, it was marred by controversy due to his involvement in a match-fixing scandal that led to a temporary suspension. After serving his ban and returning to the sport in the autumn of last year, Zhao showcased his abilities by impressively storming through the Q Tour, ultimately earning his place in the World Championship through 12 centuries at the English Institute for Sport located in Sheffield.
The final saw Zhao face off against the seasoned Mark Williams, a formidable opponent whose experience was palpable. The match unfolded with Zhao initially demonstrating exceptional skill, sinking a stunning long red that left him perfectly positioned for the black. However, he encountered some difficulty, allowing Williams to seize the momentum. The Welshman captured the first frame of the evening after rolling in a century, showcasing his own prowess, much to the delight of the crowd.
The atmosphere within the Crucible Theatre intensified throughout the match, particularly following some critical moments in the 27th and 28th frames. With the crowd roaring in support of Williams, he capitalized on Zhao’s missed opportunities, crafting a series of impressive breaks—culminating in a jaw-dropping break of 73—whereby the Welshman claimed his fourth consecutive frame, the first in the entire match. This showcase of skill provided Williams with resounding momentum, turning the tide as the match neared the interval.
Yet, Zhao, also known for his tenacity, was not to be outdone. Following the break, he faced his own challenges upon resuming, missing a chance that could have extended his lead. Nevertheless, he seized another opportunity after Williams faltered, leading to a critical performance where Zhao dazzled the audience with an emphatic break of 87, ultimately sealing his victory as World Champion.
This win has immense significance, not only for Zhao but also for the broader landscape of snooker. While Zhao rightfully stole the headlines with his exceptional gameplay—having previously taken down opponents like Jak Jones, Lei Peifan, Chris Wakelin, and even the legendary Ronnie O’Sullivan to reach the finals—Williams also garnered respect and admiration for his enduring performance despite the tournament’s rigors. Notably, Williams’ journey through the championship included victories over other stalwarts like John Higgins and Judd Trump, proving that experience remains a formidable asset in the sport.
Going forward, Williams, who is scheduled for eye surgery next month, conveyed a sense of hope for the future while reflecting on the challenge posed by Zhao. His experience and accomplishments demonstrate that the established players, including the legendary trio of Williams, Higgins, and O’Sullivan, have not yet lost their edge. However, they must contend with a rapidly evolving field that includes a new generation of players, with Zhao leading the charge.
This historic victory has earned Zhao a whopping £500,000 and the title of being the first amateur to win the championship, making him the third qualifier, alongside Shaun Murphy and Terry Griffiths, to ever achieve triumph at the Crucible Theatre. Not only does this victory crown him as champion, but it also propels him to No. 11 in the world rankings for the upcoming season, marking an inspiring chapter in his career and setting a precedent for future generations of snooker players in China.