Zhao Xintong Wows and Wobbles: Snooker Sensation Shocks Crucible with Genius and Gaffes in Quarter-Final Thriller
Zhao Xintong has captured the imagination of fans and pundits alike during the 2025 World Snooker Championship, with his effortless style and dazzling form drawing comparisons to greats such as Ronnie O’Sullivan and Tiger Woods. Entering the tournament on a remarkable 21-match winning streak, the 28-year-old Chinese star quickly became the talk of the Crucible, dispatching Jak Jones and Lei Peifan in impressive fashion to secure a spot in the quarter-finals.
Zhao appeared to be cruising once again in his last-eight clash against Chris Wakelin, storming to a 6-2 lead after a dominant morning session that showcased his trademark attacking flair. However, in the evening session, Zhao showed his first real signs of vulnerability, stunning TNT Sports commentators Phil Studd and Dominic Dale with two uncharacteristic and costly frame-ball misses.
The first came with Zhao leading 54-45 in the opening frame of the session. Presented with a straightforward blue to the middle pocket, he inexplicably rattled the jaws, drawing audible gasps from the Crucible crowd. Dale observed, “He’s missed frame-ball so many times in this match,” while Studd remarked: “Wow indeed.” Wakelin capitalised on the error and took the frame after a brief safety battle.
Shockingly, Zhao repeated the mistake in the next frame. Leading 53-17 and needing only a mid-range red to seal it, he again faltered, sending the ball off-target and giving Wakelin another lifeline. The Englishman took full advantage, clawing back to 6-4 and shifting the momentum of the match.
Snooker legend Jimmy White criticized Zhao’s lapse in concentration, noting that the pressure was starting to tell. Alan McManus echoed the sentiment, pointing out that Zhao hadn’t made a 50+ break in nine frames, suggesting his form had dipped. Despite this, McManus praised Zhao’s long-potting ability and suggested that the snooker world is still discovering his true potential.
Nonetheless, Zhao showed resilience, regaining control to extend his lead to 12-4 and moving to the brink of a semi-final berth. His campaign remains one of the most compelling stories of the championship.
