Zhao Xintong Makes History at the 2025 World Snooker Championship
In a landmark achievement for both his career and the sport of snooker, Zhao Xintong clinched the 2025 World Snooker Championship title with an 18–12 victory over veteran Mark Williams at Sheffield’s Crucible Theatre. This win not only marks Zhao’s first world title but also establishes him as the first Chinese and Asian player to secure this prestigious championship. talkSPORT+8Diario AS+8SnookerHQ.com+8Wikipedia+2The Guardian+2The Scottish Sun+2
🏆 A Historic Victory
Zhao’s path to the title was nothing short of extraordinary. After serving a 20-month suspension due to involvement in a match-fixing scandal, he returned to the sport as an amateur, navigating through four qualifying rounds to earn his spot in the main tournament. His journey included a notable semi-final win over seven-time champion Ronnie O’Sullivan, showcasing his resilience and skill. The Independent+6Reuters+6The Guardian+6
In the final against three-time world champion Mark Williams, Zhao established a commanding 17–8 lead. Despite a spirited comeback from Williams, who won four consecutive frames, Zhao maintained his composure and sealed the match with an 87 break, concluding the game at 18–12. The Guardian+11The Scottish Sun+11YouTube+11talkSPORT+3Wikipedia+3The Scottish Sun+3
🌟 A New Era for Snooker
Zhao’s triumph is more than a personal victory; it signifies a transformative moment for snooker. His win captivated over 150 million viewers in China, potentially ushering in a new era of popularity for the sport in Asia. Mark Williams, acknowledging Zhao’s talent, likened his impact to that of Luke Littler in darts, emphasizing the emergence of a new superstar in the snooker world.
🎯 What Zhao Xintong’s Win Means for the Sport
Zhao’s World Championship win isn’t just a personal or national milestone — it carries global implications for the future of professional snooker:
- A Boost for Snooker in Asia
With over 150 million viewers tuning in from China, Zhao’s victory will likely trigger a surge in interest, participation, and investment in the sport across Asia. Grassroots programs, academies, and sponsorships may now gain greater traction, mirroring the rise of table tennis and badminton in the region. - Inspiration After Adversity
Zhao’s return from suspension is a redemption arc rarely seen in professional sport. It sends a message that while past mistakes carry consequences, hard work, accountability, and discipline can pave the road back to greatness. - Changing the Face of Snooker
The sport, long dominated by Western players, is seeing a new wave of champions from diverse backgrounds. Zhao now joins a new generation of global stars, helping snooker evolve into a more international, inclusive competition.
👏 Reactions from the Snooker World
- Ronnie O’Sullivan: Called Zhao’s performance in the semi-final “flawless” and labeled him “the most naturally gifted player I’ve seen since a young Ding Junhui.”
- Mark Williams: Despite his loss, praised Zhao’s composure: “He didn’t miss. I tried everything, but he was simply too good tonight.”
- WPBSA (World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association): Celebrated the moment as “a landmark event in the globalization of the sport.”
✅ Conclusion
Zhao Xintong’s victory at the 2025 World Snooker Championship is a testament to determination, redemption, and the global evolution of snooker. His journey from suspension to world champion not only redefines his legacy but also paves the way for greater international representation in the sport. As snooker continues to grow beyond its traditional strongholds, Zhao’s success stands as a beacon of inspiration and a harbinger of the sport’s promising future.
