Zhao clinches groundbreaking title as China's inaugural World Snooker winner

The Cyclone Strikes: Zhao Xintong's Historic World Championship Victory

In a thrilling display of skill and determination, China's Zhao Xintong stormed his way to victory at Sheffield's Crucible Theatre, clinching the World Snooker Championship title after building an impressive 11-6 lead in Sunday's sessions.

At just 28 years old, Zhao became China's second World Championship finalist, emulating Ding Junhui's run to the 2016 showpiece. But unlike Ding, who was defeated by Mark Selby, Zhao delivered a nerveless performance to defeat three-time champion Williams.

The underdog's victory came with a £500,000 ($663,000) prize purse and secured Zhao's place in snooker history as the first World Championship winner from Asia.

"I can't believe what I've done. It's very exciting," Zhao said, beaming with pride. "I was so nervous tonight. Mark is still a top player and put me under so much pressure. He's the best."

Known as "The Cyclone," Zhao has established a reputation for his fast, aggressive style of play. His journey to the championship was anything but conventional; he competed as an amateur after a 20-month ban for involvement in a 2023 betting scandal.

Zhao accepted charges regarding a controversy that led to ten Chinese players being punished, with life bans for Liang Wenbo and Li Hang. His forced amateur status meant he had to fight his way through four qualifying rounds just to reach the World Championship main draw, which is a stone's throw from his Sheffield home.

Zhao became the third player, after Terry Griffiths and Shaun Murphy, to win the title as a qualifier during the 48-year Crucible era. "It's been a brilliant tournament for me. But what a potter Zhao is. I'm glad I'll be too old when he's dominating the game," Williams said, showcasing his admiration for the Chinese star.

While Zhao's story may seem startling, the rise of Asian snooker has been ongoing for several years. Snooker is massively popular in China, with a national snooker academy in Beijing cultivating the country's best young players. Millions of Chinese fans tuned in to witness Zhao's coronation.

Just a year ago, Zhao was at home watching the World Championship in the midst of his ban. But his road to redemption picked up speed with a blistering display to defeat seven-time world champion Ronnie O'Sullivan 17-7 in the semi-finals last week.

Before the final against Williams, Zhao produced a top-notch performance, winning four out of the first five frames to establish a commanding 15-7 advantage in Monday's afternoon session. Williams came back in the evening session, winning the first frame with a 101 break. However, Zhao remained unfazed, calmly claiming the championship with a 87 break in the deciding frame. He triumphantly held a Chinese flag aloft to acknowledge the thunderous applause from the crowd.

With this victory, China now boasts both the male and female world snooker champions, following Bai Yulu's triumph in the 2024 Women's Snooker Championship.

Reflecting on his victory over O'Sullivan, Zhao admitted to having mixed feelings. Yet, he had no qualms about finishing off Williams, stating, "I'm not tired. I'll maybe have a good drink tonight."

Zhao's playing style bears a striking resemblance to snooker icon Jimmy White. However, unlike White, Zhao has achieved a remarkable feat by winning the world title. It marks the latest chapter in Asian snooker's continuing rise, showcasing the region's potential for dominance in the future.

In 2025, the football scene in Sheffield might witness another history-making moment as Zhao Xintong, the Cyclone, might display his skills on the field, emulating his triumph in the Crucible Theatre.
After his historic victory at the Crucible Theatre in 2022, Zhao Xintong's sports career skyrocketed, prompting speculations about his future involvement in football.
With his competitive spirit and fast-paced play style reminiscent of snooker legend Jimmy White, Zhao Xintong is set to become a formidable force in the world of football, just as he did on the snooker table in 2025.