Zhao Xintong secured his place in history by clinching the World Championship title, marking the first time a player from China has achieved this feat. He emerged victorious with an 18-12 win over Mark Williams in a thrilling match held in Sheffield. The 28-year-old widened his lead from 11-6 to 17-8 during the concluding session on Monday afternoon, showcasing a dominant performance.
Despite facing a spirited rally from Williams in the evening, with the Welshman clinching the first four frames with impressive breaks, Zhao remained composed. The Crucible audience witnessed a tense battle reminiscent of iconic snooker finals, particularly the black-ball finish between Dennis Taylor and Steve Davis. While Williams, at 50 years old, stood as the oldest finalist at the Crucible, Zhao’s poised play ultimately sealed his victory.
Reflecting on his win, Zhao expressed his disbelief and elation, citing the immense pressure he experienced during the match. He acknowledged Williams’ skill and the intensity of the competition, emphasizing the significance of his opponent. With the £500,000 prize and a jump to 11th in the world rankings, Zhao’s triumph solidifies his status as a rising star in snooker.
Notably, Zhao’s journey to the championship was not without obstacles, including a suspension from the sport just a year prior due to involvement in match-fixing scandals. His return to the sport and subsequent triumph highlight his resilience and commitment to redemption. As the first amateur player to claim victory at the Crucible and only the third qualifier to win the prestigious title, Zhao’s win signifies a remarkable comeback.
Following a long-waited triumph for China, Zhao expressed pride in representing his country on the global snooker stage. The significance of his win resonates with Chinese snooker fans, offering inspiration to aspiring players in the nation. In contrast, Williams, who faced well-documented eye issues leading up to the final, acknowledged his defeat graciously, attributing Zhao’s remarkable performance to his ascension as a new star in the sport
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