In an unforgettable display of grit and talent, 28-year-old Zhao Xintong has made history by becoming Asia’s first snooker world champion. At the legendary Crucible Theater, he stunned fans by defeating 50-year-old Mark Williams, proving that dedication always pays off! 🏆
Zhao’s journey began when he picked up a cue at the age of eight. His coach saw his potential immediately, remarking that he was one of the most accurate players his age. Within just five years, Zhao was already making waves at the national youth tournaments in China. In 2010, he celebrated his first title in Shenzhen, south China’s Guangdong province, sparking hope and excitement among budding snooker enthusiasts across Asia.
After turning professional in 2016, Zhao experienced the highs and lows of a competitive career. His aggressive playing style earned him both thrills and challenges, including two relegations. However, he bounced back with impressive back-to-back promotions, proving that setbacks are just setups for a great comeback.
The turning point came in 2021 at the UK Championship, where he outplayed heavyweights like John Higgins, Jack Lisowski, and Barry Hawkins on his way to victory. A year later, an all-Chinese showdown at the German Masters saw him rise to world No. 9 after defeating Yan Bingtao.
Despite a major setback in 2023—a 20-month suspension following a match-fixing scandal—Zhao used the time away to reflect and grow, learning the true essence of the game. His return in September 2024 was nothing short of explosive, as he clinched three consecutive Q-Tour titles and powered through the World Championship. Beating top talents including his compatriot Lei Peifan, Chris Wakelin, and even Ronnie O' Sullivan, Zhao's triumph at the Crucible Theater is a reminder that resilience and passion can turn obstacles into stepping stones. ✨
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
