Zhao Creates History, Becomes China's First World Snooker Champion

Zhao Xintong became the first Chinese player to win the World Snooker Championship as the qualifier completed his stunning march to the title with a 18-12 victory against Mark Williams in the final on Monday. Zhao made history at Sheffield's Crucible Theatre by taking the seven frames he required to clinch the trophy after building a dominant 11-6 lead in Sunday's sessions. The 28-year-old was only China's second World Championship finalist, emulating Ding Junhui's run to the 2016 showpiece.

But while Ding was beaten by Mark Selby in the final nine years ago, Zhao produced a nerveless display to defeat three-time champion Williams.

He banked GBP 500,000 (USD 663,000) in prize money, earning immortality as Asia's first World Championship winner.