Chinese snooker sensation Zhao Xintong is on the brink of making history after storming to an impressive 11-6 lead over veteran Mark Williams on the opening day of the World Snooker Championship final at the iconic Crucible Theatre in Sheffield on Sunday.
In what could be a landmark moment for Chinese snooker, the 28-year-old qualifier displayed breathtaking skill and composure, putting himself within touching distance of becoming China’s first-ever world snooker champion. Zhao dominated the first session, racing to an extraordinary 7-1 lead in the best-of-35-frame contest, stunning both his opponent and the crowd.
Zhao’s Dream Start at the Crucible
From the very first frame, Zhao looked every bit the man in control, punishing Williams’ errors and producing a dazzling array of long pots, tactical play, and clinical breaks. His attacking approach paid dividends as he surged ahead, leaving Williams struggling to find his rhythm in the early exchanges.
Williams, a three-time world champion and at 50 the oldest finalist in Crucible history, found himself in uncharted territory, unable to capitalize even when chances fell his way. His best opportunity in the opening session came in the sixth frame, where he built a promising break of 61 but ultimately failed to close out the frame—a costly miss that allowed Zhao to snatch it and increase his lead.
By the end of the first session, Williams faced a daunting 7-1 deficit, with Zhao playing some of the finest snooker of his career under the sport’s brightest lights.
Williams Fights Back, but Zhao Holds Firm
The Welshman, renowned for his calm demeanor and tactical genius, returned for the second session determined to claw his way back into the contest. Drawing on decades of experience, Williams managed to steady the ship, winning five of the nine frames in the evening session to cut the deficit to 11-6.
Despite Williams’ revival, Zhao maintained a crucial five-frame cushion heading into the final day. His attacking flair was tempered by impressive safety play, ensuring Williams couldn’t build the momentum needed to mount a full-scale comeback. Even under pressure, Zhao continued to find key pots at vital moments, silencing any doubts about his nerve and temperament on the sport’s biggest stage.
Williams, however, is no stranger to battling against the odds. Having lifted the world title in 2000, 2003, and 2018, he knows what it takes to perform at the Crucible. Yet the statistics are stacked against him: no player has ever overturned a five-frame or greater overnight deficit to win the world title since the championship moved to the Crucible Theatre in 1977.
Zhao Eyes Historic Triumph Amid Remarkable Comeback Story
Zhao’s journey to the final is remarkable for more than just his scintillating play. Just two years ago, he was handed a 20-month ban in January 2023 after a match-fixing investigation that shook the sport. Many questioned whether he would return to the top levels of competition. Yet Zhao has silenced the critics with a career-best run in this year’s tournament, showcasing both talent and resilience.
Victory on Monday would not only crown him world champion but also earn him a £500,000 ($664,000) winner’s cheque, catapulting him into snooker’s elite both in prestige and earnings. More importantly, it would represent a seismic moment for Chinese snooker, potentially inspiring a new generation of players in a country where the sport’s popularity continues to soar.
Williams Faces Uphill Battle to Claim Fourth Crown
As the final day looms, Williams faces an uphill battle to secure a fourth world title. His fightback in the second session showed he still has the quality and determination to challenge Zhao, but he will need to produce near-flawless snooker—and hope Zhao falters under pressure—if he is to stage one of the greatest comebacks in Crucible history.
Speaking after the day’s play, Williams admitted he wasn’t at his best early on but vowed to keep fighting. I gave myself a mountain to climb, but I’ve still got a chance, he said. I’ll need to come out firing tomorrow and try to put him under pressure.
Meanwhile, Zhao remained composed, acknowledging the job was far from done. I’m happy with the lead, but I know Mark is a great champion. I need to stay focused and keep playing my game, he said.
All Eyes on Monday’s Decider
The stage is set for an enthralling conclusion on Monday as Zhao Xintong looks to finish what he started and etch his name into snooker history. While Williams will draw on every ounce of experience to mount a comeback, it’s Zhao who holds the momentum—and the hopes of an entire nation—heading into the final showdown.
One thing’s for sure: snooker fans around the world won’t want to miss what promises to be an unforgettable finish at the Crucible.
