Moments after making historical past as China’s first world snooker champion, Zhao Xintong stood proudly wrapped in his nation’s flag, starting to understand the magnitude of his accomplishment.
On Monday, Zhao overcame three-time champion Mark Williams with an 18-12 victory, changing into the primary Asian participant and novice to win on the Crucible Theatre. Williams praised the 28-year-old as a “celebrity,” whereas Jason Ferguson, chairman of the World Skilled Billiards and Snooker Affiliation (WPBSA), remarked that Zhao’s win may revolutionize the game.
“He’s not only a champion—he’s a nationwide sports icon. Zhao has earned his place in snooker historical past, and in China, he’s set to grow to be a large celeb,” Ferguson advised BBC Sport. “Snooker already has a robust presence in China, and along with his youth, expertise, and bilingual talents in English and Mandarin, Zhao has what it takes to raise the sport globally.”
Not like some cultures that root for underdogs, Ferguson famous, China celebrates champions. Zhao’s recognition may see him rise as one of many nation’s largest sports activities stars.
He additionally turned simply the third qualifier—following Terry Griffiths and Shaun Murphy—to win the World Championship for the reason that occasion moved to Sheffield in 1977. His victory is particularly outstanding contemplating he solely not too long ago returned from a 20-month suspension for his involvement in a match-fixing case, one which noticed 10 Chinese language gamers penalized.
But, after displaying distinctive kind on the novice Q Tour this season, Zhao defied the chances by profitable 4 qualifying matches and capturing the game’s most prestigious trophy.
Following the ultimate, Williams expressed his admiration: “I’m relieved I’ll be retired when he begins dominating. What he’s carried out, particularly after such a protracted break, is unbelievable. We’re witnessing the rise of snooker’s subsequent celebrity.”
“This may very well be game-changing for snooker,” Williams added. “It’s what the game wanted—somebody like Zhao rising from nowhere and shaking issues up. It’s going to make headlines in all places.”
Zhao’s win additionally marks a second main milestone for China this 12 months, a nation with over 300,000 snooker golf equipment and a inhabitants of 1.4 billion. Bai Yulu had earlier grow to be China’s first feminine world champion and is ready to defend her title on dwelling soil later this month.
Could Zhao, reporting from Sheffield for the Worldwide Sport Press Affiliation, commented: “Zhao’s triumph isn’t just a private victory—it’s a pivotal second for Chinese language snooker. It’s seemingly he’ll obtain a hero’s welcome upon returning dwelling. His success will inspire younger gamers and will remodel China’s snooker infrastructure.”
“This second may reshape the sports business future. Zhao isn’t only a winner—he’s a pioneer ushering in a brand new period for Chinese language snooker.”
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