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First Chinese World Snooker Champion
In a historic victory, Zhao Xintong emerged as the first Chinese winner of the prestigious World Snooker Championship. His triumph over the seasoned player Mark Williams not only secured him the coveted title but also propelled him towards a future where he could potentially become the “richest player in snooker history.”
The exhilarating final at Crucible saw Zhao defeating three-time champion Mark Williams with a remarkable scoreline of 18-12. Prior to this, he showcased his skill by outplaying the legendary Ronnie O’Sullivan in the semi-finals, solidifying his dominance in the sport.
Impact on China and Global Audience
Zhao’s victory resonated deeply with fans worldwide, particularly in China, where over 300,000 snooker halls stand testament to the sport’s popularity. An estimated 150 million viewers tuned in from China alone to witness Zhao’s historic win, underscoring his immense influence and star power.
Paving the Way for Olympic Recognition
With snooker aiming for inclusion in prestigious events like the Olympics, Jason Ferguson, chairman of WPBSA (World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association), emphasized the significance of leveraging snooker’s popularity, especially in regions like China. The prospect of snooker making its debut at events like the 2032 Brisbane Games opens up new avenues for global recognition and growth.
Ferguson highlighted that entering platforms such as the Olympics could be a game-changer for snooker, offering unparalleled opportunities for players like Zhao Xintong to compete on an international stage and further elevate their careers.
Unleashing Earning Potential
As discussions revolve around Zhao’s potential earnings catapulting him to unprecedented financial heights within snooker circles, it is evident that his success goes beyond mere accolades. Ferguson expressed confidence in Zhao becoming one of the highest-earning players in snooker history due to various factors such as market size and brand partnerships.
Amidst talks of Zhao surpassing renowned champions like Stephen Hendry and Ronnie O’Sullivan in terms of financial gains, there is a palpable sense of anticipation within the industry regarding how this achievement could reshape perceptions about earning potential within snooker.
A New Era Beckons
Victoria Shi, Zhao Xintong’s manager underlines that while celebrating victories is essential, staying grounded amidst newfound fame is equally crucial. As she guides Zhao through this transformative phase as Asia’s first world champion, her focus remains on ensuring that he maintains humility despite monumental success.
The saga of Zhao Xintong symbolizes more than just a sporting triumph; it signifies a cultural shift within snooker dynamics that transcends boundaries and ushers in an era where dreams of Olympic glory and record-breaking earnings are no longer distant fantasies but achievable milestones waiting to be conquered.
