**Zhao Xintong Urged Not to Rest on Laurels as Anthony Hamilton Dampens Talk of Snooker Domination**
The world of professional snooker has found a new star in Zhao Xintong, whose recent victory at the World Snooker Championship has propelled him into the international spotlight. However, not everyone believes that the Chinese sensation’s current success will translate into a prolonged period of dominance at the top levels of the sport.
Anthony Hamilton, a recently retired stalwart of the snooker scene known for his candid views, has issued both praise and a note of caution for Zhao as he navigates the highs and lows of his burgeoning career. The 31-year veteran did not hesitate to acknowledge the extraordinary skill and relaxed manner that have made Zhao a fan favourite and a force to be reckoned with on the green baize.
Drawing attention to Zhao’s effortless approach, Hamilton mused on the young champion’s distinctive playing style, describing it as reminiscent of “a billionaire’s son” – someone playing for the sheer enjoyment, with an air of calm confidence. “It’s as if he’s on a leisurely Sunday stroll,” Hamilton remarked in an interview with the Metro, indicating that Zhao’s physical ease seemed almost unflappable, regardless of the pressure.
Despite this effusive praise, Hamilton remains unconvinced that Zhao will match the sustained levels of victory seen in recent years from the current world number one, Judd Trump. Hamilton pointed out that, while Zhao’s talent is undeniable and those moments of brilliance can carry him to tournament wins, there may be stretches where he fades from the top of leaderboards. The implication was clear – consistency, as much as talent, defines snooker’s greatest champions.
Trump’s period of dominance was not lost on Hamilton, who highlighted the Englishman’s extraordinary run of ten consecutive ranking event wins between 2018 and 2020 – a spell that included his own World Snooker Championship triumph. In Hamilton’s view, it is not just flair but dedication to ongoing improvement which sets the very best apart. He recounted how Trump evolved from an attacking “one trick pony” to the complete, formidable player who has come to dominate the sport, suggesting Zhao could learn from such deliberate self-improvement.
Nevertheless, Hamilton’s comments were far from dismissive. He indicated that, while Zhao may not rule the sport as thoroughly as Trump, he still expects to see the 28-year-old Chinese star continue collecting silverware, possibly in spectacular fashion during those periods of peak form. “He’ll win tournaments at a canter at times,” Hamilton said, suggesting that Zhao’s career will be punctuated by bursts of undeniable excellence.
Zhao’s recent triumph at the Crucible was particularly significant, not just for its own sake, but as a comeback after a suspension linked to a high-profile match-fixing scandal. Hamilton acknowledged the impact this ban, and the process of maturing and reflection that followed, likely had on Zhao’s outlook. Now, suggested Hamilton, Zhao may have greater appreciation for both the privilege and difficulty of staying at the top in elite-level snooker.
Seasoned observers have noted that snooker is a sport requiring mental toughness as much as natural touch. Hamilton’s comments serve as a reminder that winning one world title does not guarantee further success – each campaign requires relentless focus and adaptability. For Zhao, who is still in the prime of his career, the challenge will be translating his vast ability into results with greater regularity, proving that his name deserves to be mentioned alongside the greats.
The coming seasons will show whether Zhao Xintong can fulfil the lofty expectations that follow his maiden world title, or if, as Hamilton foresees, his path will be marked by periods of brilliance interspersed with quieter spells. For fans, the journey of snooker’s “Cyclone” will be one to watch closely, as he strives to carve out his unique legacy in the sport’s annals.