The Cyclone Strikes Back! Zhao Xintong Stuns Mark Allen with Epic 6-5 Comeback to Reach Players Championship Final
In a thrilling semi-final encounter at the Players Championship in Telford, Zhao Xintong showcased his world champion pedigree by staging a dramatic comeback to defeat Mark Allen 6–5. Trailing 4–2 and seemingly on the back foot, the Chinese star, affectionately known as “The Cyclone,” refused to back down. He leveled the match at 5–5, before delivering a masterclass in the final frame.
Zhao, undeterred by the mounting pressure, fired a crucial break of 56 to force the decider, keeping his composure as Allen faltered. In the climactic final frame, the world champion’s nerves of steel were evident as he cleared the table, making a break of 53 before sealing the win with a nervy black ball pot. The victory was all the more significant given that Zhao had never led the match until the final handshake.
His performance confirmed why he’s one of the game’s top players, as he booked a place in his fifth ranking final. Having never lost a ranking final, Zhao is determined to extend that unbeaten streak in the final against John Higgins.
Zhao’s victory also came with a hefty reward, guaranteeing him £70,000 (roughly 2.9 million baht), a fitting prize for his remarkable resilience and skill.
The match was a perfect showcase of Zhao’s ability to perform under pressure, and with the form he’s displayed, fans are now eagerly awaiting his clash with Higgins, where he’ll look to claim another major title.
