Zhao Xintong Triumphs as the First Asian Snooker World Champion
Chinese player Zhao Xintong clinches the World Snooker Championship 2025 title, marking the historical milestone as the inaugural Chinese World Champion.
The world was dazzled by the 2025 Snooker World Championship final, with Zhao Xintong outsmarting a legend, Mark Williams, with a hard-earned 18:12 victory. This extraordinary achievement made history, as Zhao became the first Snooker World Champion from Asia.
From the initial frames, it was apparent that Zhao was on a roll, leading Mark Williams 7:1 at one point. The relentless young player continued to dominate through the third session, leaving Mark with little opportunity toretaliate. The series seemed all but over for Mark when Zhao sealed the deal with a powerful break of 87 points, securing the title in the 30th frame. For his triumph, he will pocket a yawning £500,000.
Zhao's Impressive Ascension
Zhao's journey to the championship was far from a stroll in the park. Facing accusations of match-fixing led to a 20-month ban, which he served before making a comeback as an amateur. Facing long odds, Zhao battled his way through the qualification rounds and finished the entire tournament with an impressive 111 frames under his belt.
Throughout the tournament, Zhao showcased enthralling performances, defeating notable rivals such as Jak Jones, the runner-up in last year's competition, and the prestigious seven-time champion, Ronnie O'Sullivan, in the semifinals. In the final, he faced another legend, Mark Williams, and outshone him spectacularly.
Controversy over Zhao's Ranking
Zhao's sensational win has stirred debate among fans and the World Snooker Tour (WST). Since Zhao started the qualification as an amateur, he had no ranking on the World Ranking List. With the prize money he won, he is poised to jump into the top 16, guaranteeing him a spot in numerous upcoming tournaments. However, there is uncertainty over whether the prize money earned by amateurs will be counted for the World Ranking List. This controversy has yet to be addressed by the WST.
Can Zhao Revitalize Snooker?
The snooker world was abuzz with speculations about the game's waning interest and declining attendance figures. Snooker veteran Stephen Hendry even suggested that the sport needed a figure akin to Luke Littler, who revolutionized darts. Could Zhao Xintong be the player to generate such energy in snooker?
Zhao's tournament performances left spectators feeling exhilarated. Many believe that he will be the new face of the sport, overcoming obstacles and captivating audiences. Even Mark Williams, the 2025 Snooker World Championship runner-up, share this sentiment, praising Zhao as a prodigious talent with great potential.
Years after controversy and adversity, Zhao Xintong has etched his name in the annals of snooker history with an impressive victory. The snooker community eagerly anticipates the upcoming 2025/2026 season, with Zhao's dynamic presence set to shake up the landscape. Prepare yourselves for a thrilling season, as the new world champion will stir up snooker like never before.
What about the possibility of Zhao Xintong bringing football-like excitement and fan-base growth to the snooker world?
Despite the controversy surrounding his ranking, Zhao's impressive performances have led many to speculate whether he could be the sports equivalent of Luke Littler, breathing new life into a declining sport like Zhao did for snooker.
