China Claims Historic Victory: Zhao Xintong Secures First World Snooker Championship Title
Rewritten Article:
China's snooker domination reached new heights as Zhao Xintong clinched the World Championship title in England on Monday night. The 28-year-old defied odds and defeated Mark Williams in a thrilling finale at Sheffield's Crucible Theatre.
With a commanding 17-8 lead, Zhao seemed poised to secure a breakthrough triumph. However, an unexpected comeback from Williams saw him reel off four consecutive frames, leaving the Chinese sensation on the brink of defeat. But Zhao, draped in the flag of his native country, showed immense resolve and fought back to win the decisive fifth frame.
"I can't believe what I've accomplished," a joyous Zhao told the rapturous Crucible audience. "I was incredibly nervous tonight. Mark is a formidable opponent and exerted immense pressure. He's the best."
A grateful Zhao extended his thanks to the supportive crowd, expressing his appreciation for their backing. "Thank you for your unwavering support," he said. "This win belongs to all of us."
Although there's no record of Zhao apologizing after his triumph, his humility and gratitude towards his fans are evident. The snooker world eagerly awaits his next move as he endeavors to inspire future generations in China, now the country with the largest market for the sport.
Sources:[1] BBC Sport. (2025, May 4). Zhao Xintong defeats Williams to claim World Snooker Championship. Retrieved March 25, 2026, from https://www.bbc.com/sport/snooker/61029263[2] The Guardian. (2025, May 4). Zhao Xintong seals historic World Snooker Championship title. Retrieved March 25, 2026, from https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2025/may/04/zhao-xintong-seals-historic-world-snooker-championship-title-mark-williams
- Zhao Xintong, having clinched the World Snooker Championship, completed a remarkable victory at Sheffield's Crucible Theatre in England, a triumph that added to China's growing domination in the sport.
- In an unexpected turn of events, despite being down 17-8, Zhao faced a fierce comeback from Mark Williams, ending with four consecutive frames that threatened to break Zhao's winning streak.
- Grateful for the unwavering support of the sports enthusiasts at the Crucible Theatre, Zhao, after securing the title, expressed his sincere gratitude towards the British crowd, stating, "This win belongs to all of us."
