At the Crucible Theatre on Monday, Zhao Xintong defeated Welshman and three-time champion Mark Williams to become the first Chinese player to win the World Snooker Championship. This victory marks the latest chapter in Zhao’s incredible ascent and decline.
Despite Williams’ valiant bid at a comeback, the 28-year-old prevailed 18 frames to 12 to become the first amateur to win the world title.
“What I’ve done is unbelievable. “It’s really thrilling,” Zhao declared while holding a Chinese flag. “Tonight, I was really anxious. I was under a lot of pressure from Mark, who is still a really good player. He is the greatest.
“It’s a very special moment for me, for Chinese snooker, for everyone.”
