Zhao makes history as first Chinese World Snooker Champion
SHEFFIELD, England: Zhao Xintong etched his name into the history books on Monday, becoming the first Chinese player to win the World Snooker Championship with a stunning 18-12 victory over three-time champion Mark Williams at the Crucible Theatre.
The 28-year-old’s remarkable triumph capped off a rollercoaster journey that saw him return from a 20-month match-fixing ban, enter the tournament as an amateur, and fight through four rounds of qualifying just to reach the main draw.
“I can’t believe what I’ve done. It’s very exciting,” said Zhao, draped in the Chinese flag. “It’s a very special moment for me, for Chinese snooker, for everyone.”
Taking an 11-6 lead into the final day, Zhao looked calm and composed as he surged to a 17-8 advantage in the afternoon session. Despite a spirited four-frame comeback from Williams in the evening, Zhao held firm and clinched the title in the 30th frame, completing one of the most unlikely triumphs in Crucible history.
Once considered the brightest young talent in Chinese snooker, Zhao’s victory marks a powerful redemption arc and a landmark moment for the sport in China.(Reuters)
