Zhao Xintong Advances at World Snooker Championship

SHEFFIELD: Zhao Xintong marked a successful return to the World Snooker Championship on Monday, defeating Jak Jones, the previous year’s runner-up, with a score of 10-4 in the opening round at the Crucible.

The 28-year-old Chinese player is making a notable comeback after serving a 20-month suspension for violating betting rules related to a match-fixing probe. Despite his current status as an amateur, Zhao is slated to rejoin the professional circuit in the upcoming season.

Zhao’s next challenge is against fellow countryman Lei Peifan, known for his stunning victory over the 2024 champion, Kyren Wilson, in the first round on Saturday.

Jones praised Zhao’s display, suggesting that the Chinese competitor has the potential to win the competition and become the first amateur—as well as the first Chinese player—to secure the coveted title.

“I don’t think anyone is performing at a higher level than him,” Jones commented. “If he ends up winning, it wouldn’t shock me, and it would be a positive thing for the sport.”

“While there are players with more accomplishments, I believe he is the best player in the tournament,” he stated.

Zhao mentioned that the intensity of the four qualifying rounds helped him overcome any rustiness and regain his competitive form.

“Overall, I am satisfied with my performance, especially my scoring,” Zhao said. “This match was crucial for rebuilding my confidence. Since I won’t be back on the tour until next season, every match is extremely important to me.”