In a story that has captivated the global sporting community, Zhao Xintong, a name once shrouded in controversy, has made a remarkable comeback to the world stage with a fairy-tale victory at the 2025 World Snooker Championship. From the shadows of suspension to the summit of the sport, Zhao’s journey is now an emblem of resilience, transformation, and the unstoppable rise of Chinese snooker. With every frame, he writes a new chapter for himself and for the millions who now believe anything is possible on the green baize.
Introduction
Zhao Xintong, known as “The Cyclone,” is not just a name but a phenomenon that has redefined snooker in China and beyond. From a precocious talent emerging in Xi’an to becoming the first Asian player to clinch the World Snooker Championship, Zhao’s journey is one of resilience, controversy, and unmatched sporting brilliance. His dramatic career arc, marked by early promise, an unprecedented suspension, and a historic comeback, continues to capture global attention.
Early Life and Origins
- Born on April 3, 1997, in Xi’an, China, Zhao displayed a unique affinity for snooker as a child, quickly earning recognition through junior and amateur circuits.
- By the age of 15, Zhao had already stunned audiences at the Zhangjiagang Open, and not long after, he was defeating former world champions such as Ken Doherty and Steve Davis in prestigious invitational tournaments.
- His humble beginnings in Xi’an offered little in the way of glamour, and Zhao’s ascent became a source of immense pride for the city and for China.
Professional Career and Breakthrough
- Zhao Xintong turned professional in 2016 at the age of 19, establishing a reputation for his audacious attacking play and remarkable ability to build breaks.
- His first major breakthrough came in the 2021 UK Championship, where he bested Luca Brecel in the final to capture his first Triple Crown title and announce his arrival on the global stage.
- In 2022, he followed up with a flawless 9-0 win over Yan Bingtao at the German Masters, becoming only the third player to win a two-session ranking final without conceding a frame.
- Zhao Xintong’s run of form propelled him into the world’s top 16 for the first time, a historic moment for Chinese snooker.
Playing Style and Nickname
- Nicknamed “The Cyclone,” Zhao is known for his fast, fluid, and fiercely attacking style at the table, drawing comparisons to the likes of Roger Federer in the world of snooker.
- His high break-building proficiency, highlighted by a career-high break of 145, cements his reputation as one of the most explosive talents in the sport.
- Zhao’s fearlessness and charisma have made him a fan favourite and a role model for aspiring players across Asia.
Major Achievements and Honours
Controversies: The Match-Fixing Ban
- In January 2023, Zhao Xintong’s burgeoning career came to a halt when he was suspended alongside other Chinese players amid a wide-ranging match-fixing investigation by the WPBSA.
- Unlike others, Zhao Xintong was not found to have fixed his own matches but admitted to placing bets for fellow player Yan Bingtao, a breach of ethics that led to a 20-month ban.
- The disciplinary tribunal, recognising his remorse and the unique circumstances faced by young Chinese players isolated during the pandemic, reduced his ban and highlighted his attempts to dissuade others involved in fixing matches.
- Many in the snooker community have debated his culpability; some see Zhao as a victim of peer pressure.
Comeback and Redemption: Historic 2025 World Championship Victory
- After his ban expired in September 2024, Zhao was forced to rebuild his career from scratch on the amateur circuit.
- Dominating the Q Tour Europe circuit, Zhao secured his return to the professional ranks and, in a stunning feat, battled through four rounds of qualifiers to reach the main draw of the 2025 World Championship.
- At the Crucible Theatre, Zhao defeated snooker legends including Ronnie O’Sullivan and Mark Williams, becoming the only amateur to lift the world title in the modern era and the youngest champion since Shaun Murphy in 2005.
- His crowning glory resonated in China and across the snooker world, watched by over 150 million viewers in his homeland.
- His victory catapulted him back into the world’s top rankings and cemented his place as a sporting icon.
Life Cycle and Career Phases
Early Promise (2012-2015)
Ascendancy (2016-2022)
Crisis and Suspension (2023-2024)
Redemption and Return (2024-2025)
Present and Future (2025—)
- Back on the professional circuit, major sponsorships, and a new role as an ambassador for Chinese sport and global snooker.
Sponsorships, Brand Partnerships, and Social Impact
- Following his classic comeback, Zhao was named BYD’s “Champion Ambassador,” underscoring his impact as both a sporting icon and cultural influencer in China and globally.
- His partnership with innovative brands signifies a new era for sports branding in Asia, leveraging his inspirational story and mass appeal.
- Zhao remains a youth icon, his resilience and honesty admired even by critics.
Recent News and Performance
- In August 2025, Zhao returned to the World Snooker Tour, defeating Chris Wakelin and impressing fans with his renewed focus and energy.
- Despite a narrow defeat at the Wuhan Open, Zhao remains a top contender in every tournament he enters, his presence alone drawing massive crowds and TV audiences.
- Off the table, he is active in media, conducting interviews, mentoring younger players, and promoting the sport throughout Asia.
FAQs About Zhao Xintong
Who is Zhao Xintong?
Zhao Xintong is a Chinese professional snooker player hailed as China’s first World Snooker Champion, famed for his attacking style and inspiring career turnaround.
What did Zhao Xintong do to get banned?
In 2023, Zhao was suspended for 20 months for placing bets on behalf of another player during match-fixing cases, but he was not found to have fixed matches himself.
How did he come back to professional snooker?
After his ban, Zhao dominated the amateur circuit, won the Q Tour Europe, and sensationally won the 2025 World Snooker Championship as an amateur, regaining his tour card.
What are Zhao Xintong’s major career achievements?
His accolades include the 2025 World Snooker Championship, the 2021 UK Championship, the 2022 German Masters, and a career-high professional world ranking of No. 6.
Why is Zhao Xintong important for Chinese sport?
He is a pioneer for Asian players in snooker, with his victories inspiring a new generation and symbolizing China’s growing influence in the sport.
What is his playing style?
Nicknamed “The Cyclone,” Zhao is known for aggressive offence, rapid pace, high break-building skills, and entertaining shot selection.
What is Zhao Xintong’s latest news?
As of September 2025, Zhao has returned to the professional circuit, participated in major tournaments, and was recently appointed an ambassador for BYD, a global leader in new energy vehicles.
Has he been involved in any other controversies?
His only controversy is related to the 2023 match-fixing investigation; he has since been widely praised for his remorse and integrity after the incident.
Zhao Xintong’s Legacy and Impact
- Zhao has redefined the possibilities for Chinese and Asian players in snooker, breaking barriers and becoming a symbol of hope and perseverance.
- His underdog victory at the World Championship transformed his narrative from that of a disgraced player to a national hero, inspiring millions.
- Beyond his skill with the cue, Zhao’s humility and candour have fueled his redemption, making him one of snooker’s most compelling characters.
