Zhao Xintong became the first Chinese player to win the World Snooker Championship with a victory over Welshman and three-times winner Mark Williams at the Crucible Theatre on Monday, the latest chapter in Zhao’s remarkable rise and fall story.
The 28-year-old won by 18 frames to 12 to become the first amateur to win the world title, despite a spirited comeback attempt from Williams.
The Chinese player, who lives just a 10-minute walk from the Crucible venue, took an 11-6 overnight lead into Monday’s third session.
The final was already historic no matter the result, as the 50-year-old Williams became the oldest player to reach the final with his semi-final win over world No. 1 Judd Trump.
“I can’t believe what I’ve done. It’s very exciting,” said Zhao, draped in a 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 received a 20-month ban in January 2023 after a match-fixing scandal that rocked the sport, the repercussions of which meant he was classed as an amateur at this event and needed to get through four rounds of qualifying to reach the Crucible – a grueling run to the title that began on April 7.
