Zhao Xintong etched his name into snooker history on Monday by becoming the first Chinese player to win the World Snooker Championship, defeating three-time champion Mark Williams 18–12 at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield. The victory marked a stunning comeback story for the 28-year-old, who entered the tournament as an amateur after serving a 20-month ban for match-fixing.
Zhao’s triumph capped off a remarkable journey that began on April 7, when he started his campaign in the qualifiers due to his amateur status. Despite the odds, Zhao stormed through the rounds and delivered a commanding performance throughout the final, holding off a spirited challenge from the 50-year-old Welshman.
“I can’t believe what I’ve done. It’s very exciting,” Zhao said, draped in the Chinese flag. “I was so nervous tonight. Mark is still a top player and put me under so much pressure. He’s the best. It’s a very special moment for me, for Chinese snooker, for everyone.”
Zhao, who lives just a short walk from the Crucible, entered the final session with a strong 11–6 lead. He extended that advantage to 17–8 by the afternoon, leaving himself just one frame away from the title. Williams, showing his trademark flair, made a late push by winning the first four frames of the evening. But Zhao responded in the fifth, sealing a hard-fought and emotional victory.
The final was already historic: Williams had become the oldest finalist in the modern era after defeating world number one Judd Trump in the semis. Zhao, meanwhile, had stunned seven-time champion Ronnie O’Sullivan to reach the championship match, confirming his resurgence on the sport’s biggest stage.
“It’s been a brilliant tournament for me,” said an emotional Williams. “The support I’ve had over the past two weeks has been unbelievable. But what a potter Zhao is. He’s a superstar. To come back after everything and win this… unbelievable.”
Nicknamed “the Cyclone” for his fast-paced style, Zhao’s breakthrough not only redefines his career but also signals a new era for Chinese snooker.
