Zhao Xintong, affectionately recognised as “The Cyclone,” has re-emerged as an impressive pressure in the global of snooker. After serving a 20-month suspension because of his involvement in a match-solving scandal, Zhao’s go back to the game has been marked through dazzling performances and a renewed dedication to reclaim his region amongst snooker’s elite.
Early Life and Rise to Prominence
Born on April 3, 1997, in Xi’an, Shaanxi, China, Zhao Xintong showcased prodigious skills from a young age. His fast playing fashion and excellent cue ball manipulation earned him the nickname “The Cyclone.” Turning expert in 2016, Zhao quick made his mark at the snooker scene.
Breakthrough Achievements
2021 UK Championship Victory: Zhao clinched his first principal title by defeating Luca Brecel 10–5 in the final. This victory propelled him into the pinnacle sixteen of the arena rankings, making him eligible for prestigious tournaments just like the Masters.
2022 German Masters Triumph: Demonstrating his dominance, Zhao whitewashed Yan Bingtao 9–0 in the final, turning into handiest the 1/3 participant to win a two-consultation rating final without conceding a frame.
The Match-Fixing Scandal and Suspension
In January 2023, Zhao became amongst ten Chinese gamers suspended through the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA) amid a match-solving investigation. While Zhao did not immediately restore any matchs, he became responsible for being aware about match-solving sports and having a bet on snooker matchs.
Initially surpassed by a 30-month suspension, his ban was decreased to twenty months because of early admissions and a responsible plea. The suspension concluded on September 1, 2024, permitting Zhao to go back to WPBSA-sanctioned occasions outside of China.
Triumphant Return to Competitive Play
Zhao’s comeback started out with participation in the WPBSA Q Tour, a platform designed to offer possibilities for gamers aiming to qualify for the expert World Snooker Tour.
Notable Performances
Stockholm Q Tour Event (October 2024): Zhao made records through recording the first-ever most 147 smash at the Q Tour and secured the event victory through defeating Craig Steadman 4–3 in the final.
Next Successes: He endured his dazzling match through triumphing extra Q Tour occasions in Manchester and Vienna, similarly solidifying his role as a pinnacle contender.
Road to Redemption: Statements and Aspirations
Expressing his dedication and optimism, Zhao stated:
“I simply need to experience the matchs, however if I play well, I realize I may be a champion once more at the tour. I trust in myself, so let’s do it.”
His performances have now no longer handiest showcased his talent however additionally his resilience and dedication to the game.
Impact on Chinese Snooker and Global Implications
Zhao’s resurgence comes at a time whilst Chinese gamers are making huge strides in the snooker global. The 2025 World Snooker Championship noticed a report that ten Chinese gamers qualified, indicating a shift in the game’s dynamics. Zhao’s capacity to end up China’s first global champion should similarly raise the country’s fame in the snooker community.
Why did Zhao get suspended?
Zhao Xintong became suspended due to the fact he breached the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA) guidelines on the subject of a match-solving investigation. While Zhao did now no longer for my part restore any matchs, he become discovered responsible of the following:
Charges Against Zhao Xintong:
Being aware of a match-solving hobby and failing to file it to the authorities.
Betting on snooker matchs, which is exactly prohibited for expert gamers below WPBSA regulations.
These movements constituted extreme breaches of the game’s integrity policies. Although Zhao became no longer worried in solving matchs himself, his failure to file corrupt hobbies and his personal having a bad involvement had been sufficient to warrant disciplinary action.
Duration and Terms of Suspension:
Initial suspension: 30 months
Reduced suspension: 20 months (because of early admissions and cooperation)
Suspension start: January 2023
Suspension end: September 1, 2024
During the ban, Zhao became barred from all WPBSA-sanctioned occasions, despite the fact that he has for the reason that again to play after serving his decreased sentence. However, he stays suspended from playing in China till July 2025, in line with China’s personal snooker authorities.
Zhao Xintong Next match
Zhao Xintong is presently competing in the 2025 World Snooker Championship at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield. He confronted Jak Jones in the first spherical match, with the match setting out on Sunday, April 20, 2025, at 10:00 AM BST (2:30 PM IST).
In this commencing match, Zhao brought an outstanding performance, showcasing his scoring prowess and reaffirming his fame as a pinnacle contender in the event.
With this victory, Zhao advances to the ultimate sixteen, wherein he is ready to stand Lei Peifan. Lei currently triggered and disenchanted through defeating defending champion Kyren Wilson in the first spherical.
Zhao Xintong net worth
As of April 2025, Zhao Xintong’s envisioned net worth is approximately £800,000, in general gathered through his expert snooker profession. This parent encompasses his event profits, endorsements, and different associated profits streams.
Career Earnings Breakdown
Zhao’s overall professional prize cash stands at around £806,712, in line with data. His most huge profits stem from his victories in principal tournaments:
2021 UK Championship: Zhao secured his first Triple Crown name through defeating Luca Brecel 10–5 in the final.
2022 German Masters: He carried out a dominant 9–0 victory over Yan Bingtao, marking one of the most complete wins in a rating final.
Zhao Xintong Tour 2025
Notable Achievements:
Event 3 (Stockholm, October 2024): Zhao made records through recording the first-ever most 147 smash at the Q Tour at some point of his 4–1 win over Shaun Liu in the spherical of 64. He went directly to win the event.
Event 4 (Manchester, November 2024): He endured his dominance through defeating Ryan Davies 4–2 in the final, which includes every other 147 smash and 3 century breaks at some point of the event.
Event 5 (Vienna, December 2024): Zhao secured his 1/3 consecutive name with a 4–2 victory over Ryan Thomerson, providing a event-high smash of 142.
Event 6 (Mons, Belgium, January 2025): He capped off his Q Tour run through defeating Ehsan Heydari Nezhad 4–1 in the final, marking his thirty second consecutive match win at the tour.
Return to the Professional Circuit
Zhao’s successful Q Tour overall performance earned him a two-yr tour card for the 2025–26 World Snooker Tour. Additionally, his pinnacle rating at the Q Tour Europe listing assured him a niche in the 2025 World Snooker Championship qualifying draw.
Looking Ahead
Zhao Xintong’s adventure from a growing big name to going through adversity and creating a super comeback serves as an inspiring narrative in the international of snooker. His resilience and backbone preserve to captivate enthusiasts and characterize a promising destiny for Chinese illustration in the sport.
FAQs
How has Zhao executed given that he went back to aggressive play?
Since returning, Zhao has received more than one Q Tour activities, which include a 147 smash in Stockholm, and has proven steady high-degree overall performance.
Is Zhao eligible to take part in all expert snooker activities now?
While Zhao’s WPBSA suspension has ended, he stays suspended from activities in mainland China till July 2025. However, he’s accepted to compete in WPBSA-sanctioned activities outside of China.
What are Zhao’s destiny aspirations in snooker?
Zhao aims to regain his role among the various pinnacle gamers and aspires to win important titles, which include the World Championship, reflecting his perception in his skills and dedication to the sport.
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