Zhao Celebrates Crucible Victory Amid Fans’ Airport Photo Requests
Zhao Xintong, at 28 years old, has etched his name in snooker history as China’s first world champion. His remarkable journey began with an extraordinary triumph at the Crucible in Sheffield, where he overcame Mark Williams 18-12 in the final. This victory marked a significant milestone for both Zhao and the sport in China.
Zhao’s Historic Victory at the Crucible
In May, Zhao completed a stunning nine-match winning streak, showcasing his skills and determination. He expressed the challenges of managing newfound fame after his win. “Being world champion is very different. There’s a lot of pressure,” he noted after winning 6-1 against fellow Chinese player Long Zehuang at the UK Championship.
Adjusting to Fame
“I’m learning how to enjoy the game,” Zhao commented, admitting that balancing his busy schedule and practice time has been a challenge. He feels overwhelmed by his recent achievements. “I’m not sure this is all real!”
From Doubt to Triumph
Zhao’s rise came after a tumultuous period. In 2021, he first gained recognition by clinching the UK Championship title, defeating Luca Brecel 10-5 in the final. However, his journey took a dramatic turn when he became embroiled in a corruption scandal, leading to a suspension from the sport.
- Zhao was initially banned for two and a half years, later reduced to one year and eight months.
- He admitted to being involved in match-fixing activities alongside another player.
His return to competitive snooker at the UK Championship last year set the stage for his historic Crucible performance. Along the way, he defeated notable players, including:
- Jak Jones, the 2024 world runner-up
- Ronnie O’Sullivan, a seven-time champion, in the semi-finals
- Mark Williams, a three-time winner, in the final
The Future Ahead
As Zhao continues to navigate the pressures of elite snooker, his focus remains on improving his game and handling fame. His journey from struggling player to world champion inspires many in the sport and highlights the growing prominence of snooker in China.
