The Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, usually the stage for snooker’s greatest battles, became a temple of triumph on Monday as Zhao Xintong etched his name into history. With a commanding 18-12 victory over three-time world champion Mark Williams, the 28-year-old Chinese player not only claimed the World Snooker Championship but also became the first Asian player—and the first amateur—to lift the trophy at the sport’s most hallowed venue. His win, a masterclass in composure and skill, has sent shockwaves through the snooker world and ignited a wave of national pride in China, where crowds have already begun gathering to cheer his return home.
Zhao’s victory is more than a personal triumph. This proves a seismic moment for Chinese snooker. For a nation with over 300,000 snooker clubs and a population of 1.4 billion, his achievement resonates far beyond the baize. Just nine years after Ding Junhui’s heartbreaking defeat to Mark Selby in the 2016 final, Zhao has delivered the breakthrough China has long awaited. His journey to the top was far from straightforward. As recently as 12 months ago, Zhao was serving a 20-month suspension following his involvement in a match-fixing scandal that saw 10 Chinese players sanctioned. Yet, his return to competition this season has been nothing short of meteoric, culminating in a dominant performance that left Williams, the Crucible’s oldest ever finalist at 50, fighting a losing battle.
Williams, known for his resilience and clutch performances, briefly raised hopes of a comeback with a series of strong breaks and a memorable run of frames. However, Zhao’s relentless form—including a scintillating run of 87 in the final frames—proved decisive. The Welshman, who had overcome significant personal challenges to reach the final, was ultimately unable to bridge the gap. “It could be huge for the sport,” Williams admitted afterward. “It could open floodgates everywhere. He could dominate or at least give Judd Trump or Kyren Wilson a run for their money.”
A New Superstar and a National Hero
Zhao’s victory has already elevated him to the status of a national hero in China. Within minutes of securing the title, he was draped in his country’s flag, a symbol of the collective joy his achievement has brought. Jason Ferguson, chairman of the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA), described Zhao as a “superstar” and predicted that his impact would be transformative. “We are talking about a national hero,” Ferguson told BBC Sport. “In China, he will probably be one of the biggest stars there. China loves its heroes and winners. Some countries back underdogs, but in China, they really celebrate their champions.”
Zhao’s rise is all the more remarkable given his status as a qualifier. He is only the third player since 1977 to win the World Championship after coming through the qualifying rounds, joining the ranks of Terry Griffiths and Shaun Murphy. His journey from suspension to world champion in less than two years is a testament to his resilience and talent. “I can’t believe what I have achieved this month,” Zhao said after the match. “There was big pressure and big nerves. I knew if I missed, he could come back quickly.”
The Impact on Chinese Snooker
Zhao’s victory is poised to reshape the landscape of snooker in China and beyond. The country’s snooker community, already vibrant with over 300,000 clubs, is set to benefit from a surge in participation and commercial interest. Bai Yulu’s historic win as the first Chinese Women’s World Champion in 2024 has paved the way and Zhao’s triumph will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of players. “This win is not only a personal triumph but also a historic breakthrough for Chinese snooker,” said May Zhao, reporting for the International Sport Press Association. “It will inspire the younger generation in China and drive the development of the country’s training system and structure.”
Analysts suggest Zhao’s success could also have broader implications for the sport globally. His charisma, bilingual abilities, and entertaining style make him a natural ambassador for snooker. Mark Williams compared his impact to Luke Littler’s rise in darts, suggesting that Zhao’s dominance could attract new fans and investment to the sport. “He has the ability to become the most popular sporting star in the country,” Ferguson said. “This is going to take snooker to another level.”
The Road Ahead
As Zhao prepares to return to China, the anticipation of his homecoming is palpable. Reports indicate that crowds are already gathering at airports and public squares, eager to celebrate their new hero. The Chinese snooker federation is expected to organize a grand reception, and Zhao’s victory will likely lead to increased support for the sport’s development in the country.
For Zhao, the next challenge will be maintaining his form and building on his world championship success. With a £500,000 prize and a climb to 11th in the world rankings, he is now firmly established as one of the sport’s elite. His journey from suspension to world champion in less than two years is a story of redemption and triumph, one that will be remembered for generations.
As the snooker world looks ahead, Zhao’s legacy is already being written. His victory at the Crucible is not just a personal milestone but a turning point for Chinese snooker and a reminder of the power of perseverance. For now, the focus remains on celebrating his achievement and the bright future it promises for the sport.
For updates on Zhao Xintong’s next matches and the development of Chinese snooker, follow the BBC Sport Snooker section and the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association.
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