Zhao Xintong: 2025 Snooker Champion & China’s Hero
- Zhao Xintong, draped in the Chinese flag, celebrated his groundbreaking victory as China's first world snooker champion.
- Williams lauded the 28-year-old as a "superstar," while Jason ferguson, chairman of the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA), believes Zhao will propel snooker "to another level."
- "He has entered the history books of this sport, and in China, he will probably be one of the biggest stars."
Zhao Xintong has etched his name in history,becoming China’s first world snooker champion! News reports confirm his decisive 18-12 victory over Mark Williams. This historic triumph elevates the rising star, who many now consider a national hero. Experts predict that Zhao’s stunning win will dramatically increase snooker’s popularity throughout China. The 28-year-old’s journey, including a recent comeback from suspension, is truly remarkable.Jason Ferguson of the WPBSA believes Zhao will revolutionize the sport. China’s dominance in snooker may be only beginning, especially considering the impact of Bai Yulu’s Women’s World Championship title win. For more updates, visit News Directory 3. Discover what’s next for this exciting new era in snooker.
Zhao Xintong’s Historic Snooker Win Sparks New Era for Chinese Snooker
Zhao Xintong, draped in the Chinese flag, celebrated his groundbreaking victory as China’s first world snooker champion. His 18-12 defeat of three-time winner Mark Williams marked a historic moment for Asian snooker and the sport itself.
Williams lauded the 28-year-old as a “superstar,” while Jason ferguson, chairman of the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA), believes Zhao will propel snooker “to another level.”
Ferguson emphasized Zhao’s potential impact. “We are talking about a national hero,” Ferguson said. “He has entered the history books of this sport, and in China, he will probably be one of the biggest stars.”
Zhao is only the third qualifier, after Terry Griffiths and Shaun Murphy, to win the title since the tournament moved to Sheffield in 1977. His victory is especially notable considering his recent return from a 20-month suspension related to a match-fixing scandal.
Despite the suspension, Zhao showcased notable form, becoming the first player to win after coming through four qualifying matches.
“I’m glad I’ll be too old when he’s dominating the game,” Williams said. “There’s a new superstar of the game.”
Williams also noted the potential impact on the sport. “It might very well be huge for the sport. It could open floodgates everywhere,” he said, drawing parallels to Luke Littler’s impact on darts. ”This is what snooker needed,someone like him coming through.”
May Zhao, reporting for the International Sport Press Association, highlighted the broader significance: “Zhao’s victory is not only a personal triumph but also a historic breakthrough for Chinese snooker.” She anticipates a hero’s welcome and believes the win will inspire younger generations and improve China’s training system.
What’s next
With over 300,000 snooker clubs in China,Zhao’s win,coupled with Bai Yulu’s Women’s World Championship title,could usher in a new era of dominance for Chinese snooker on the global stage.