Who’s Superior? Judd Trump or Ronnie O’Sullivan in Ball Striking?
Stephen Hendry, the iconic snooker player, has praised Zhao Xintong as the best ball striker he has ever witnessed, surpassing legends such as Ronnie O’Sullivan and Judd Trump. Recently crowned world champion, Zhao clinched his first victory in this capacity at the Riyadh Season Snooker Championship, triumphing over Neil Robertson with a score of 5-2.
Judd Trump vs. Ronnie O’Sullivan: The Debate of Ball Striking Superiority
Zhao Xintong’s performance has brought him to the forefront of snooker discussions. Hendry highlighted Xintong’s exceptional talent on TNT Sports, stating, “No one struck the ball as pure as Zhao Xintong.” This accolade positions him as a potential era-defining player in the sport.
The Riyadh Championship Journey
- Final Match: Zhao defeated Neil Robertson 5-2.
- Victory Prize: £250,000 for winning the championship.
- Semi-Final Match: Zhao edged out Judd Trump with a 4-3 win.
Zhao’s path to victory in Riyadh included a solid opening win against Shaun Murphy, a player who had previously defeated O’Sullivan 4-0. The final showcased a closely contested beginning but ultimately highlighted Zhao’s command of the table, particularly noted in the critical third frame.
Future Aspirations Following Victory
After his triumph, Zhao expressed excitement about his performance, acknowledging nerves but determined to remain composed against Robertson. He is now focused on the upcoming UK Championship, aiming for a repeat win after his 2021 success.
Zhao Xintong’s Controversial Past
Despite his recent successes, Zhao Xintong’s career has not been without controversy. In early 2023, he was involved in a significant match-fixing scandal, implicating ten Chinese players. While he did not fix matches himself, he admitted to involvement in betting activities regarding snooker events. His initial 30-month suspension was reduced to 20 months due to his cooperation and early guilty plea.
Having completed his ban in September 2024, Zhao has made an impressive return to form, culminating in his 2025 World Snooker Championship victory. As he prepares for future competitions, including the UK Championship, all eyes will be on his performance as he seeks to further establish his legacy.
