Zhao is the First Asian World Snooker Champion
Beijing (AFP) – Zhao Xintong has made sporting history by becoming the first Asian player to win the World Snooker Championship, defeating Mark Williams 18-12 in a thrilling final at Sheffield’s Crucible Theatre on Monday. The 28-year-old's stunning achievement went viral, capturing national attention and pride across China.
Social Media Eruption and Ding Junhui’s Tribute
On Tuesday morning, the topic "Zhao Xintong wins world championship" was viewed more than 120 million times on Weibo and ranked today China news. The victory brought tears of joy from fans and sports legends.
China's first snooker star and 2016 World Championship runner-up Ding Junhui greeted Zhao's victory as a wait of many years for the nation:
"The darkness we trod earlier was all so we can see the light one day," Ding wrote on Weibo. "Zhao Xintong did it! What he achieved is the shared dream of Chinese snooker players generation after generation. I'm proud of this surge in Chinese strength."
From Scandal to Redemption
Zhao's path to success has not been without its bumps. In January 2023, he lost his professional tour card and was handed a 20-month ban after he admitted to being party to a match-fixing scandal. He pleaded guilty to two charges of facilitating others to fix matches and betting on matches himself—a scandal which involved ten Chinese players, two of whom received lifetime bans.
Despite all these drawbacks, Zhao returned to the sport as an amateur and completed one of the finest comebacks in snooker history.
National Pride and Social Media Reactions
While some fans remain guarded due to the previous controversy, the overall atmosphere on social media is one of celebration and hope.
"He deserves a second chance," one user said.
"This isn't a miracle—it's the inevitable result of years of quiet commitment," another posted.
today China news headlines prominently featured Zhao's win, describing it as a source of national pride and a one to be emulated for generations of athletes to come.
Increasing Support from Other Chinese Players
Chinese snooker skills are on the increase, and Zhao's win has won over his fellow players. Si Jiahui, a 2023 semi-finalist, congratulated "Brother Tong" on Weibo:
“I’m learning from you! My idol has changed!”
Lei Peifan, who shocked defending champion Kyren Wilson in the first round, called Zhao’s win “a new milestone in Chinese snooker,” adding: “Go Team China!”
China's Growing Dominance in Snooker
China's influence in global snooker has grown rapidly over the past two decades. This year, 10 Chinese players reached the final 32 at the Crucible, a clear indicator of the nation’s depth and development in the sport.
In addition to male players, Chinese women have also excelled. Bai Yulu and Hong Kong’s Ng On-yee have both won the women’s world championship, further elevating the sport’s visibility.
Snooker has even reached popular culture. The 2024 TV drama Amidst a Snowstorm of Love, about a returned snooker prodigy and a new love affair, was a huge success in China.
A Landmark Moment for Chinese Sports
Zhao's win is seen by most as more than a sporting victory. It is determination, perseverance, and the arrival of Chinese excellence on the global stage. As today China news continues to go on about his win, Zhao is an inspiration to young athletes who hope to emulate him.
With the Chinese flag proudly draped across his shoulders as he hoists the trophy, Zhao's victory is one which billions of people had been awaiting for decades. It is already a timeless page in Chinese sporting history.
Conclusion: A Win for the Nation
Zhao Xintong's victory isn't a single achievement for him—it's a triumph for the country. His redemption story, grit, and talent now set an example for a new generation of Chinese snooker players. With today China news websites still basking in this historic win, Zhao has etched his name forever in fans' hearts and the pages of sports history.