China’s first ever world snooker champion has revealed how his life has changed since making history.
Zhao Xintong made global headlines in May when he became the first player from China to win the World Championship.
The talented star, who was competing at the Crucible as an amateur, beat most of his opponents in brutal fashion – including a thrashing of snooker legend Ronnie O’Sullivan with a session to spare to reach the final.
His remarkable success marked a huge turn around of fortunes for the 28-year-old who had just returned to the amateur circuit after his ban from the game for almost two years.
Zhao did not fix a match but was suspended from World Snooker Tour for betting on games himself and being a party to another player fixing two matches.
His superb form in the amateur events last season helped him not only regain his tour place for this season but he also received a wildcard for the World Championship qualifying stages. He won all four of his games to make it through to the Crucible.
Before his ban Xintong was making a real name for himself having won both the UK Championship and German Masters. His playing style was likened to Jimmy White and in the World Championship just gone his break building and dominance had an element of Stephen Hendry when he was in his pomp.
‘I’ve got a little bit famous’
Seven-times world champion Hendry spoke with Zhao on a recent episode of his Cue Tips YouTube show. Zhao told him his life has changed and he made it famous in China since winning the World Championship.
Zhao said: ‘I think it’s a big change for me, life’s changed, I’ve got a little bit famous in China. When I walk on the road, fans know me, I’m very happy I can feel that.
‘I’m looking forward to next season. I know the season has started now, so I’ve watched some matches on my phone. I’m looking forward to my first match at the Shanghai Masters.
‘When you’re famous you get big pressure, I know that but I will try to keep to myself, just keep going, don’t think a lot about the media and the internet. I just want to keep to myself.’
Zhao is now back on the main tour and will compete in the Shanghai Masters invitational event starting on July 28.
