🎱 Big comeback vibes from Zhao Xintong! 🎱
World Snooker Champion Zhao Xintong is back, and he’s opening up about his challenging 20-month ban from the sport. The Chinese star faced a rocky road after a betting scandal led to his suspension in early 2023, which saw ten players, including Zhao, face consequences.
But did Zhao let that stop him? Not a chance! 💪 In an interview with snooker legend Stephen Hendry, Zhao revealed that he never stopped practising, keeping his skills sharp in Sheffield alongside fellow Chinese snooker players. His dedication has paid off spectacularly—after returning to the tour, he clinched the 2025 World Championship title!
Zhao is determined to defy the ‘Crucible curse’—the age-old notion that no first-time winner has defended their World Championship title since the event moved to Sheffield in 1977. While fans chat about this so-called curse, both Zhao and Hendry dismiss it as mere TV chatter. Zhao focuses on his game, not myths, and with his confidence, he’s geared up to take on this year’s competition.
He’s set to begin his 2026 journey by facing qualifier Liam Highfield. The snooker world will be watching to see if Zhao can create history once again.
Fellow players can’t help but praise him, with snooker veteran Mark Williams calling Zhao “a phenomenal potter.” Looks like the snooker universe has a new shining star! 🌟
Catch all the action as Zhao’s story of resilience unfolds, with his eyes fixed firmly on defending his hard-won title! 🏆#SnookerChampion #ZhaoXintong #ComebackKing #SnookerLegends