Mark Staniforth PA

1 week ago | leicestermercury.co.uk | Steve Wollaston |Mark Staniforth PA

Zhao Xintong made history by becoming China's first world snooker champion, a victory that Mark Williams, his opponent in the final, believes marks the start of an exceptional career. Williams, part of the renowned 'Class of '92', likened Zhao to a young Ronnie O'Sullivan after he held off a spirited comeback from the Welsh veteran to secure an 18-12 win. Williams praised Zhao, saying: "He (Zhao) is as good to watch as O'Sullivan was when he was younger.

1 week ago | leicestermercury.co.uk | Steve Wollaston |Mark Staniforth PA

Zhao Xintong made history by becoming China's first world snooker champion, holding off a spirited comeback from Mark Williams to secure an 18-12 victory at the Crucible. Entering the final session just one frame away from the title, Zhao had to bide his time as the Welsh veteran rallied with four consecutive frames, pushing the match past the mid-session interval. Williams, who at 50 is the oldest finalist in Crucible history, had opportunities to close the gap further.