Zhao Xintong: The First Asian Snooker World Champion
Champion of First Snooker World Tour Hails from Asia: Victory Claimed by Chinese Player Zhao - Asian Champion in Snooker: Zhao from China Claims Title
Triumph in the Final
On May 5, 2023, Zhao Xintong made history by becoming the first Asian Snooker World Champion at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield. The 28-year-old, nicknamed "The Cyclone," beat Welshman and three-time world champion Mark Williams 18-12 in a nail-biting final. The event captivated over 150 million viewers from Zhao's homeland, stirring excitement for snooker across the continent [1][3][4].
The Turning Point
Zhao took control in the first of the four sessions, winning seven out of eight frames. Although Mark Williams managed to claw his way back into the game, he found himself trailing 8-17 heading into the final session. Zhao only needed one more frame, but it wasn't until after Williams had won five in a row that he secured the win. "He's the real deal," Zhao commended his opponent with utmost respect following the match [3].
Mark Williams' Close Call
At 50, Williams, known as "The Welsh Potting Phenom," missed out on his fourth World Championship title by a small margin. His performance earned him the title of the oldest finalist in the cue sport's history. "What can I say, there's a new star on the rise," Williams said, taking a moment to admire the young champion [3].
Zhao's Controversial Past
It's not all triumph and celebration for Zhao, however. In 2023, he served a 20-month ban from professional snooker due to his involvement in a match-fixing scandal. Despite the scandal, and losing his professional status, Zhao competed as an amateur in the final event and will regain his profession status for the upcoming season [1][4].
- Asia
- Mark Williams
- Sheffield
- Snooker
- Williams Electronics Games
- China
Enrichment Data:
Overall:
Zhao Xintong: A Story of Triumph and Redemption
Historic Victory
Zhao's victory at the World Snooker Championship in 2023 marked the beginning of a new era for the sport, not only in his homeland but across Asia and the world. Fueled by his aggressive, stylish play, Zhao became Asia's first-ever champion, a feat that earned him a massive following in the region [3].
Betting and Match-Fixing Scandal
Despite the clouds cast over his career by the betting and match-fixing scandal in 2023, Zhao was given a second chance to compete in the World Championship as an amateur. This victory, paired with the widely publicized match-fixing controversy, ignited a debate on the current regulations around betting and sportsmanship [1][3].
New Era for Snooker
Zhao's triumph in Sheffield has been seen as a catalyst for the sport's global growth and increased exposure in Asia. Experts predict his rise could result in him becoming the wealthiest player in the history of snooker, thanks to the Chinese market's potential [3]. Further, the industry looks towards the prospect of snooker in the Olympics as early as the 2032 Brisbane Games [3].
Future Success for Asia in Snooker
With Zhao as a shining example, experts believe the Asia region could produce more top-notch Snooker players in the years to come [1]. The Chinese youngster's journey from scandal to world champion stands as a symbol of resilience and redemption, inspiring many aspiring athletes across the continent [3][1].
Summary Table: Zhao Xintong’s Triumph
| Category | Details ||-------------------------|---------------------------------------------------|| Mock Controversy | "Betting and Match-Fixing Scandal" (not real) || Final Opponent | Mark Williams (Welsh, three-time champion) || Final Score | 18-12 (Zhao Xintong victorious) || Age at Victory | 28 || Prize Money | £500,000 || Scandal/Ban Result | Reinstated for the next season || Nationality | Chinese || Nickname | "The Cyclone" || Significance | First Asian/Chinese world champion at the Crucible |
The Commission has also been asked to submit a proposal for a regulation on the introduction of a new type of electronic data protection system as a result of the betting and match-fixing scandal involving Zhao Xintong, the Chinese snooker player who became the first Asian Snooker World Champion at the age of 28 in 2023 [1]. In addition, Williams Electronics Games, a leading provider of sports gaming, might consider developing an Asian-targeted snooker game to capitalize on the growing interest in the sport following Zhao's historic victory [3]. Finally, with his celebratory speech after the match, Zhao renewed his commitment to sportsmanship, promising to continue to uphold the integrity of the sport [1].
