Zhao Xintong Stuns Wilson in Thrilling Black-Ball Decider
In a match that will be etched in the memories of snooker fans for a long time, China's Zhao Xintong edged out Kyren Wilson 6-5 to secure his place in the semi-finals of the Champion of Champions tournament. The final frame was won by Zhao after Wilson potted the black, only for Wilson to leave the cue ball for Zhao to pot and seal victory.
The match began with a blistering start from both players as they traded breaks, but it was Zhao who took the lead 3-1. However, Wilson's experience eventually told as he roared back in the next four frames, including break of 104 and 120, to level the score at 5-5.
The decisive frame saw Wilson pot the black for a winning break, only for Zhao to pull off a stunning 58 break to win the match. Wilson's run on the final break was impressive as he potted the black but missed his attempt to leave it for Zhao, who capitalized on the opportunity to seal victory with a straightforward safety shot.
Zhao attributed his win to being lucky in the last two frames and getting away with some missed opportunities from Wilson. He will now face world number Judd Trump in the final four of the 16-player invitational tournament, which is a non-ranking event. This marks Zhao's first appearance at the Champion of Champions since winning the title in 2021.
Zhao's impressive form has been on display throughout this year as he navigated through the group stages with ease and will now face his toughest challenge yet against Trump. The stage is set for an exciting match, which promises to be a thrilling ride for fans worldwide.
In a match that will be etched in the memories of snooker fans for a long time, China's Zhao Xintong edged out Kyren Wilson 6-5 to secure his place in the semi-finals of the Champion of Champions tournament. The final frame was won by Zhao after Wilson potted the black, only for Wilson to leave the cue ball for Zhao to pot and seal victory.
The match began with a blistering start from both players as they traded breaks, but it was Zhao who took the lead 3-1. However, Wilson's experience eventually told as he roared back in the next four frames, including break of 104 and 120, to level the score at 5-5.
The decisive frame saw Wilson pot the black for a winning break, only for Zhao to pull off a stunning 58 break to win the match. Wilson's run on the final break was impressive as he potted the black but missed his attempt to leave it for Zhao, who capitalized on the opportunity to seal victory with a straightforward safety shot.
Zhao attributed his win to being lucky in the last two frames and getting away with some missed opportunities from Wilson. He will now face world number Judd Trump in the final four of the 16-player invitational tournament, which is a non-ranking event. This marks Zhao's first appearance at the Champion of Champions since winning the title in 2021.
Zhao's impressive form has been on display throughout this year as he navigated through the group stages with ease and will now face his toughest challenge yet against Trump. The stage is set for an exciting match, which promises to be a thrilling ride for fans worldwide.
just saw that Zhao Xintong totally shredded Kyren Wilson in the Champion of Champions semi-finals!!! 
6-5 is insane! I mean, who needs luck when you're playing snooker as well as that? 
Wilson's breaks were crazy tho... 104 and 120?! 
that's some serious skill! 
Zhao was clutch in the final frame though, what a save! 
can't wait for the final against Judd Trump, gonna be EPIC 
! I was on the edge of my seat watching this match and Wilson's 104 break earlier in the game was insane 
. Judd Trump better watch out because I think Zhao is on fire right now 
[GIF of a snooker ball bouncing into a pocket] 
and then BAM! You realize you've been living with it wrong this whole time 
[GIF of a spider web with a black ball at the center] The tension was palpable, but in the end, Zhao's luck (and some Wilson mistakes) sealed the deal 
Now he's one step closer to facing Judd Trump... can you smell what the Meme Dropper is cookin'? 
Zhao really pounced on it and made him pay... 58 break in the final frame? 
can't believe what just happened!!! 
Can't wait to see how he'll handle the pressure! 
. i think zhang's skills are crazy underrated btw, always been a fan of his aggressive style 
anyway back to snooker who knew zhao xintong had it in him lol his luck in the last two frames is either amazing or crazy reliant on his opponents misses 
cant wait for the final four against judd trump though