Can Zhao's Genius Outshine Higgins at the Players Championship?

Zhao Xintong has made headlines by winning five ranking events, including his latest victory at the Players Championship against John Higgins. Zhao's impressive performance saw him secure the title with a final score of 10-7, showcasing his remarkable skill and determination.

Last updated: 14 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

In a thrilling final at the Players Championship held in Telford, Zhao Xintong exhibited his championship prowess by overcoming veteran player John Higgins. The match was a tight contest, with both players demonstrating remarkable skill. However, Zhao's ability to regain control in the latter stages led to his victory, marking his second consecutive ranking title this month.

Key takeaways

• Zhao Xintong has now won five ranking events, a remarkable feat for the 28-year-old.
• This victory makes him the fourth player in history to win his first five ranking finals.
• John Higgins, at 50, was aiming to become the oldest winner of a ranking event but fell short.

Timeline: how we got here

Zhao's ascent in the snooker world has been rapid, with significant milestones including:

• December 2022: Zhao wins the UK Championship, marking his first major title.
• January 2023: He secures victory at the World Grand Prix.
• October 2023: Zhao defeats John Higgins at the Players Championship, adding to his growing list of accolades.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Zhao's latest victory at the Players Championship solidifies his status as a prominent player in the snooker world. His performance against Higgins showcased his ability to handle pressure and perform at a high level consistently.

What was already established

Prior to this match, Zhao had already made a name for himself by winning multiple ranking events. His triumphs have sparked discussions about his potential to dominate the upcoming World Championship.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

Zhao's victory not only elevates his status but also contributes to the growing popularity of snooker in the UK. Fans are increasingly engaged with the sport, which may lead to increased viewership and attendance at future events.

Businesses and jobs

The success of players like Zhao Xintong encourages investment in snooker events, which could benefit local businesses and create job opportunities in event management and hospitality sectors.

Policy and regulation

As interest in snooker grows, there may be discussions among governing bodies regarding the structure of tournaments and the potential for increased sponsorship and funding, particularly for emerging talent like Zhao.

Numbers that matter

• 5: The number of ranking events Zhao has won in his career so far.
• 2: Number of consecutive ranking titles won by Zhao this month.
• 50: Age of John Higgins, who sought to become the oldest ranking event winner.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Ranking events: Professional snooker tournaments where players earn ranking points based on their performance.
• Century break: A score of 100 points or more in a single visit to the table, showcasing a player's skill and consistency.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

With Zhao's momentum, he is expected to be a strong contender in upcoming tournaments, particularly as he aims for the World Championship.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the season progresses, Zhao's performance will be closely monitored, with expectations of further success possibly leading to increased sponsorship and fan engagement.

Signals to watch

• Upcoming tournament schedules and Zhao’s participation.
• Performance stats in the lead-up to the World Championship.
• Fan engagement metrics and ticket sales for snooker events.

Practical guidance

Do

• Follow Zhao Xintong's career for insights into emerging talent in snooker.
• Attend local snooker events to support the sport's growth.

Don’t

• Dismiss the potential of new players based on their age or experience.
• Overlook the impact of grassroots support on the sport's future.

Checklist

• Stay updated on Zhao's upcoming matches and performance.
• Engage with snooker communities online and offline.
• Consider attending live events to experience the atmosphere.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Zhao’s recent successes are promising, snooker is known for its unpredictable nature. Factors such as injuries, changes in form, and competition from other skilled players could influence his future performances. Additionally, the long-term impact of this win on Zhao's career trajectory remains to be seen.

Bottom line

Zhao Xintong's victory at the Players Championship establishes him as a formidable force in snooker, particularly as he gears up for the World Championship. His accomplishments not only highlight his talent but also raise expectations for the future of the sport in the UK.

FAQs

How many ranking events has Zhao Xintong won?

Zhao Xintong has won five ranking events, including his recent triumph at the Players Championship.

What did John Higgins say about Zhao Xintong?

John Higgins praised Zhao as "an absolute genius" and noted that his last frames were "poetry in motion."

What could be next for Zhao Xintong?

Following his recent victories, Zhao is expected to be a strong contender at the upcoming World Championship, with fans eager to see how he performs.