What's happened
Zhao Xintong made history as the first Chinese player to win the World Snooker Championship, defeating Mark Williams in Sheffield. This victory marks a significant milestone for snooker in China, highlighting the sport's rapid growth and Zhao's remarkable comeback after a 20-month suspension for match-fixing.
What's behind the headline?
Impact on Snooker in China
- Zhao's victory is expected to significantly boost the popularity of snooker in China, a country with over 300,000 snooker halls and a massive fan base.
- His success may inspire a new generation of players, as noted by former world champion John Parrott, who believes Zhao will 'inspire another wave of players in China and all over Asia.'
Cultural Significance
- Zhao's win comes at a time when China is seeking to enhance its global image, particularly in sports. His dual fluency in English and Mandarin positions him as a bridge between cultures, potentially improving China-British relations.
- The excitement surrounding Zhao's win, with over 180 million views on Weibo, indicates a strong national pride and interest in snooker, which has evolved from a niche sport to a mainstream phenomenon in China.
Future Prospects
- Jason Ferguson, chairman of the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association, predicts that Zhao could become the richest player in snooker history, given the lucrative market in China and the growing interest in the sport globally. This could lead to snooker being included in future Olympic events, further elevating its status.
What the papers say
The Guardian highlights Zhao's remarkable comeback and the excitement surrounding his victory, noting that he has become a role model for young people in China. The South China Morning Post emphasizes the potential for Zhao's win to inspire future players and enhance snooker's profile in Asia. The Independent discusses the historical context of snooker in China and Zhao's role in its growth, suggesting that his success could positively impact China-British relations. Overall, the coverage reflects a consensus on the significance of Zhao's achievement for both snooker and Chinese sports culture.
How we got here
Zhao's journey to the championship began with a 20-month suspension due to his involvement in a match-fixing scandal. His return to the sport in September 2024 saw him rise through the ranks, culminating in his historic win on May 6, 2025, which captivated millions in China.
Go deeper
- What led to Zhao's suspension?
- How has snooker grown in popularity in China?
- What does this victory mean for the future of snooker?
Common question
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How did Zhao Xintong become the first Chinese World Snooker Champion?
Zhao Xintong's historic victory at the World Snooker Championship has captured the attention of sports fans worldwide. As the first Chinese player to achieve this milestone, his journey is filled with challenges and triumphs that reflect the growing popularity of snooker in China. This page explores the significance of Zhao's win and what it means for the future of the sport.
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What Does Zhao Xintong's Historic Snooker Championship Win Mean for China?
Zhao Xintong's recent victory at the World Snooker Championship marks a pivotal moment for snooker in China. As the first Chinese player to achieve this feat, his win not only highlights his personal journey but also signifies the growing popularity of snooker in Asia. This page explores the implications of his victory, the challenges he faced, and the reactions from the snooker community.
More on these topics
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China, officially the People's Republic of China, is a country in East Asia. It is the world's most populous country, with a population of around 1.4 billion in 2019.
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Zhao Xintong is a Chinese professional snooker player, widely considered one of the most promising upcoming snooker talents.
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The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom or Britain, is a sovereign country located off the northÂwestern coast of the European mainland.
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Mark James Williams, MBE is a Welsh professional snooker player who is a three-time World Champion, winning in 2000, 2003, and 2018. Aged 43 when he triumphed in May 2018, he became the second oldest winner of the World Championship at the Crucible. Often
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The World Snooker Championship is the leading snooker tournament both in terms of prestige and prize money. The first championship was held in 1927 and was won by Joe Davis.