Zhao Xintong’s journey in snooker is one of the most dramatic stories in modern sport. His career has seen spectacular victories, painful setbacks, and a historic triumph that changed the landscape of the game. In 2025, Zhao became the first Chinese player to win the World Snooker Championship, an achievement that elevated him to legendary status. His path has been filled with challenges: from leaving school to pursue snooker, to winning major tournaments, enduring suspension, and then making one of the greatest comebacks in snooker history.
Early Life and Entry into Snooker
Born in April 1997 in Xi’an and raised in Shenzhen, Zhao was introduced to snooker at a very young age. His parents worked in the medical field, but they recognized their son’s exceptional talent for cue sports. At just eight years old, Zhao practiced outside shops on small snooker tables, sometimes even standing on skates to reach shots. By the age of ten, a full snooker table was installed at home so he could train more seriously.
He later joined professional academies in Guangdong, where he honed his skills against other young Chinese prodigies. His decision to leave formal schooling and focus entirely on snooker was a gamble—but one that eventually paid off.
Turning Professional and Rising Through the Ranks
In 2016, Zhao officially turned professional. His early seasons were filled with both promise and struggle. Although his natural talent was obvious, he lacked consistency and often exited tournaments in early rounds. However, he showed flashes of brilliance that hinted at a bright future.
By 2021, Zhao had broken into the top tier of world snooker. He gained recognition for his fearless attacking style and his ability to score heavily under pressure. His rise was steady, proving that perseverance and natural skill could carry him forward.
First Major Victories and Breakthrough Moments
Zhao’s first major breakthrough came in December 2021 when he won the UK Championship, defeating Luca Brecel in the final. This victory was a turning point, marking him as one of the new stars of the sport. It was also significant because the UK Championship is part of snooker’s prestigious “Triple Crown” events.
In early 2022, Zhao added another title by winning the German Masters. His 9–0 victory over Yan Bingtao in the final was historic—it was only the third time in history that a two-session ranking final had ended in a whitewash. At this point, Zhao was ranked as high as world number six and was seen as the brightest Chinese hope since Ding Junhui.
The Scandal and Suspension: A Turning Point
In 2023, Zhao’s career came to a sudden halt when he was suspended in connection with a major match-fixing scandal that involved several Chinese players. After an investigation, Zhao was banned from competition for 20 months.
This suspension was devastating. Not only did Zhao lose his professional status, but his reputation was also severely damaged. For many players, such a setback would have ended their careers. However, Zhao remained determined to rebuild. His time away from the game became a test of patience, character, and resilience.
Return via the Amateur Ranks and the Q Tour
When his suspension ended in September 2024, Zhao did not immediately return to the professional circuit. Instead, he entered the amateur Q Tour in Europe, a secondary competition that provides a pathway back to the main professional tour.
Zhao dominated the Q Tour, winning four consecutive events and even producing maximum 147 breaks along the way. His performances proved that his talent had not diminished. By finishing top of the Q Tour rankings, he earned a new professional tour card for the 2025–26 season.
The 2025 World Championship: Historic Triumph
Despite still being officially classified as an amateur at the start of 2025, Zhao entered the World Championship qualifiers. Against the odds, he worked his way through the rounds and reached the main stage at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield.
Zhao’s run through the tournament was nothing short of remarkable. He defeated several top players, including Ronnie O’Sullivan in the semi-final, before beating Mark Williams 18–12 in the final. In doing so, he became the first Chinese player and the first amateur in history to win the World Snooker Championship.
His victory was a defining moment not only for him but for the entire sport. It signaled a new era in which snooker was no longer dominated exclusively by players from the United Kingdom.
Style of Play, Strengths, and Records
Zhao is known for his attacking style, quick rhythm, and fearless shot selection. His greatest strength is his break-building ability. He has compiled hundreds of centuries in his career and is capable of producing big breaks under pressure.
He has also proven himself capable of producing dominant performances, such as the 9–0 whitewash in the German Masters final. His calmness under pressure, especially during long matches, makes him a formidable opponent.
By 2025, Zhao had won three major ranking titles: the UK Championship, the German Masters, and the World Championship. He also became the first Asian player to claim the sport’s biggest prize.
Significance for the Sport in China and Globally
Zhao’s world title was celebrated across China as a groundbreaking achievement. For years, snooker had been growing in popularity in the country, but no Chinese player had managed to win the world championship. Zhao’s triumph changed that and inspired a new generation of players.
Internationally, his victory highlighted the global reach of snooker. It broke the traditional dominance of UK players and reinforced the idea that the sport is truly international. Zhao’s story also brought renewed attention to the importance of resilience and redemption in professional sports.
Challenges Ahead and Future Prospects
Even as world champion, Zhao faces new challenges. Maintaining consistency will be key, as many past champions have struggled to follow up their biggest achievements. The weight of expectation from fans and the media will also be immense.
However, Zhao has already shown he can overcome setbacks. With strong support from China’s growing snooker infrastructure and his proven talent, he has the potential to remain at the top of the game for many years. His career from this point forward will be closely watched, not only in China but across the entire snooker world.
Conclusion
Zhao Xintong’s story is one of talent, perseverance, and redemption. From a young boy playing on makeshift tables, to suspension and scandal, and finally to the highest stage of world snooker, his journey is remarkable. His 2025 World Championship victory will be remembered as one of the greatest comeback stories in the history of the sport. For China, it marks the beginning of a new chapter. For snooker as a whole, it signals the arrival of a truly global era.
FAQ
Who is Zhao Xintong?
Zhao Xintong is a Chinese professional snooker player, born in 1997, who became the first Chinese and first amateur to win the World Snooker Championship in 2025.
What major titles has he won?
He has won three major ranking titles: the 2021 UK Championship, the 2022 German Masters, and the 2025 World Snooker Championship.
Why was Zhao suspended?
In 2023, Zhao was suspended for 20 months following involvement in a match-fixing scandal that included multiple Chinese players.
How did Zhao return to professional snooker?
He earned his way back through the Q Tour Europe, winning four consecutive events and topping the rankings to regain a professional tour card.
What makes his 2025 World Championship win historic?
He was the first Chinese player and the first amateur in history to win the world title, marking a turning point for global snooker.
What are Zhao’s strengths as a player?
He is best known for his fast, attacking style, strong break-building, calmness under pressure, and ability to dominate opponents in long matches.
What impact has Zhao had on snooker in China?
His victory inspired millions of fans, boosted the sport’s popularity, and encouraged more investment in youth academies and grassroots snooker programs across China
