In a historic and emotional final at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, Zhao Xintong became the first Chinese and Asian player ever to win the World Snooker Championship. His 18–12 victory over three-time champion Mark Williams not only capped a sensational comeback story but also marked a defining moment in the global evolution of professional snooker.
From Suspension to World Champion
Zhao’s path to the pinnacle of snooker has been nothing short of remarkable. Following a 20-month suspension from the sport due to breaches of betting regulations, Zhao was forced to rebuild his career from the ground up. Competing as an amateur, he dominated the Q Tour Europe, winning four consecutive events to reclaim his professional status and secure a place back on the main tour.
Entering the 2025 World Championship as a qualifier, Zhao faced long odds. But with each match, he demonstrated elite-level poise, break-building precision, and a fierce competitive spirit that carried him through a grueling field of world-class competitors.
Crucible Brilliance
Once on the main stage, Zhao’s form was electric. He stunned the snooker world by defeating seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan in the semi-finals with a commanding 17–7 scoreline. It was a performance that combined fearlessness with finesse, announcing Zhao as a legitimate contender for the title.
In the final, he faced Welsh legend Mark Williams, a three-time world champion seeking his own fairytale ending. Zhao, however, was relentless. He built an early 7–1 lead and never allowed Williams to gain significant momentum. With a blend of fluent potting and clever safety play, Zhao maintained control throughout the match, ultimately securing an 18–12 win and lifting the coveted trophy.
A Landmark Victory
Zhao’s world title is groundbreaking on several fronts. He is the first Chinese player in history to win the World Snooker Championship, and the first amateur since the tournament moved to the Crucible in 1977 to claim the title. He also becomes just the fourth qualifier ever to win the championship, joining the ranks of Alex Higgins, Terry Griffiths, and Shaun Murphy.
At just 28 years old, Zhao is the youngest champion in two decades and now stands as a symbol of resilience, redemption, and the unstoppable rise of Asian talent in professional snooker.
A New Era Begins
Zhao’s win is expected to spark a new wave of popularity for the sport in China, where snooker is already booming in viewership and grassroots participation. Industry leaders have called his win a potential catalyst for Olympic inclusion efforts, especially ahead of the 2032 Games.
As the new reigning world champion, Zhao Xintong will return to the Crucible in 2026 tasked with overcoming the infamous “Crucible curse” — a challenge that has seen every first-time world champion since 1977 fail to defend their title the following year.
Regardless of what the future holds, Zhao’s 2025 triumph has already cemented his legacy and inspired a generation. It is a victory that transcends the sport — one that represents hope, perseverance, and the power of second chances.
