Zhao Xintong has etched his name into the history books by becoming the first Chinese player to win the World Snooker Championship. His 18-12 victory over Mark Williams in the final at the Crucible Theatre marks a watershed moment for the sport, not only in China but across the globe. The win signals the emergence of a new era, one in which China, a country already deeply invested in snooker, may begin to dominate the sport at its highest levels.
The match itself was a spectacle, with Zhao demonstrating remarkable poise and technical brilliance throughout. Against Williams, one of snooker’s most seasoned champions, Zhao showcased not only his talent but also a maturity and temperament well beyond his years. His dominant performance in the afternoon sessions gave him a commanding lead, and despite a spirited fightback from Williams, Zhao maintained his composure to close out the match with an assured break of 87 in the final frame.
This triumph is made all the more remarkable considering Zhao’s recent history. Just over seven months ago, he was making his return to competitive snooker after serving a 20-month suspension related to a match-fixing scandal. Though he did not fix matches himself, he admitted to being involved in betting activities and being a party to another player’s wrongdoing. His return began humbly on the amateur Q Tour, but his response to adversity has been emphatic. Since coming back, Zhao has won 42 of his 44 matches, including five qualifiers to reach this year’s World Championship.
His performance at the Crucible will likely be remembered not just for the scoreline, but for the way he played. Zhao’s style fluent, attacking, and confident brought flair and excitement to the tournament. His ability to deliver under pressure, especially in the final, has drawn comparisons with some of the sport’s greatest players. While many predicted he had the talent, few expected such a rapid and complete resurgence.
This win has profound significance beyond personal redemption. With over 300,000 snooker halls and a massive fanbase, China has long been a sleeping giant in the world of snooker. Zhao’s victory could well be the spark that ignites a new generation of players and fans. His achievement is symbolic of the growing strength and depth of Chinese snooker, and it sends a powerful message to aspiring players back home.
Despite his young age and the shadow of his past suspension, Zhao’s victory was warmly received by fans and fellow professionals. The reaction at the Crucible suggested that many are willing to give him a second chance, recognizing his efforts to accept responsibility and move forward. His own words after the match reflected this sentiment modest, emotional, and forward-looking, he expressed hope that more Chinese players would soon follow in his footsteps.
The final also served as a moment of transition for the sport. Mark Williams, aged 50, became the oldest finalist in Crucible history and spoke graciously after the match, acknowledging that Zhao’s emergence could mark the beginning of a new dominant force in snooker. Williams’s remarks reinforced the sense that a new chapter is beginning one led by Zhao and possibly many more from China.
With his trophy in hand and the adulation of fans both near and far, Zhao Xintong’s story is more than just a sporting triumph. It is a tale of redemption, resilience, and the reshaping of a sport’s global landscape.
