Zhao Xintong is currently dominating the world of snooker, embarking on a remarkable winning streak that’s captivating fans and unsettling rivals alike. The world champion is on the verge of achieving a feat rarely seen in the sport – claiming a third consecutive ranking title at the Welsh Open this week.
His season began quietly after the euphoria of his Crucible triumph, but a switch has flipped. Zhao’s form has surged, transforming him into an almost unstoppable force on the baize. He’s dismantling opponents with a blend of power and precision, leaving a trail of victories in his wake.
The World Grand Prix in Hong Kong served as the launchpad for this incredible run. Zhao navigated a challenging field, overcoming legends like John Higgins and Mark Selby before a decisive victory over Zhang Anda in the final. He showcased not just skill, but a growing resilience under pressure.
The momentum carried directly into the Players Championship in Telford. Zhao continued his relentless march, defeating Elliot Slessor, Shaun Murphy, and Mark Allen. Another clash with Higgins in the final resulted in a commanding win, solidifying his claim as the planet’s premier player.
That victory over Higgins wasn’t just another title; it etched Zhao’s name into snooker history. He became only the fifth player ever to win his first five ranking finals, joining an elite group that includes Steve Davis, Mark Williams, and Neil Robertson – a testament to his extraordinary talent.
The relentless schedule shows no sign of slowing. Immediately after lifting the Players Championship trophy on Sunday, Zhao travelled to Llandudno to begin his Welsh Open campaign on Tuesday. He’s already dispatched Fan Zhengyi and Stan Moody, securing his place in the last 16.
Now, a familiar face awaits: former world champion Stuart Bingham. A win on Thursday night would extend Zhao’s winning run to an astonishing 11 matches, placing him just four victories away from a historic third consecutive ranking title. Such dominance is exceptionally rare in professional snooker.
Judd Trump was the last player to achieve this feat, in 2023, but before him, a select few – Ray Reardon, Steve Davis, Stephen Hendry, and Ding Junhui – had conquered the challenge of three in a row. Zhao is poised to join their ranks.
Higgins, a seasoned competitor and astute observer, was moved to call Zhao a “genius” after witnessing his masterful performance in the Players Championship final. Breaks of 104, 126, and 92 demonstrated a breathtaking command of the game.
Remarkably, Zhao himself downplays his current form, attributing his success to luck. “I just think I’m the lucky one because I play not really, really well but I got the trophy,” he confessed. This humility belies a growing confidence and a steely determination.
He acknowledges a significant shift in his mindset. Previously, falling behind against top players like Williams, Higgins, or O’Sullivan would feel like a fatal blow. Now, he believes in his ability to mount a comeback, a newfound resilience born from experience and success.
“I think I’ve grown up,” Zhao explained. “Before if I’m 1-3 down or 2-4 down I think game over. But now I think maybe I can come back and I can do much better. I have confidence now.” This mental fortitude is proving to be as potent as his natural talent.
The schedule remains packed, with the World Open in Yushan and the Tour Championship in Manchester looming before his defense of the world title in April. Yet, Zhao embraces the challenge, driven by a simple desire: “I just want to enjoy the snooker table. I just want to enjoy every tournament.”
