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28-Year-Old Amateur Zhao Xintong Wins World Snooker Championship 18-12, Surpassing Ronnie O'Sullivan's Earnings

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Updated May 8, 2025, 12:12 PM

Zhao Xintong made history by becoming the first Chinese and Asian player to win the World Snooker Championship, defeating three-time champion Mark Williams 18-12 in Sheffield. The 28-year-old dominated the match, leading 11-6 after the first two sessions and extending his lead to 17-8 after the third. Zhao, an amateur player who previously served a 20-month ban, is now seen as a rising star in snooker, with comparisons made to Ronnie O'Sullivan. His victory has sparked widespread interest in snooker across China, potentially boosting the sport's popularity and youth training programs.

Zhao is also on course to become the richest snooker player in history, surpassing earnings of established stars. Following his win, snooker authorities faced criticism from players who reportedly wanted Zhao banned from the championship. Zhao's achievement has garnered over 130 million views on Chinese social media, with notable figures like Ding Junhui praising the triumph as a reward for Chinese snooker fans. The victory has been described as a breakthrough moment for China as a leading snooker nation.

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