Wu Yize claims career-high world ranking after Shenzhen Open victory
Wu Yize secured his third ranking triumph with a 10-5 victory over Yuan Sijun in the final of the Shenzhen Open, rising to a career-high position of number two in the official world rankings released on October 5, 2026. This milestone marks the first time in snooker history that the top two players on the world rankings list come from China, with Zhao Xintong holding the number one spot.
Zhao Xintong maintains top spot despite early Shenzhen exit
Zhao Xintong was knocked out early in the Shenzhen Open much to the disappointment of his home support, but he held a sufficient buffer to retain first place on the rolling two-year standings with £1,265,550. The 29-year-old has hardly any points to defend between now and the 2027 World Championship, leaving him in pole position at the top of the rankings. Wu Yize stands less than £30,000 adrift in second place with £1,238,900, followed by Judd Trump with £1,114,050, Neil Robertson with £1,100,200, and Mark Selby with £1,070,500.
Yuan Sijun climbs to twenty-sixth after maiden final appearance
Yuan Sijun earned a £76,000 payday following his first appearance in a ranking event final at the Shenzhen Open. The 26-year-old improved to a career-high position of 26 in the world rankings with £288,400. Elsewhere in the top tier, Chris Wakelin reached a career-high ranking of 11 after a run to the quarter-finals, while Jimmy Robertson returned to the top 40 after advancing to the semi-finals.
Northern Ireland Open approaches as next ranking event
The 2026/27 snooker calendar continues with the Northern Ireland Open, scheduled to run from October 18 to 25 in Belfast. The tournament serves as the next crucial stop for players looking to secure points for both the two-year list and the one-year rankings, which determine qualification fields for the World Grand Prix, Players Championship, and Tour Championship in the second half of the season.
How do snooker rankings and prize money work?
How do the one-year snooker rankings differ from the two-year standings?
The one-year rankings track prize money earned solely within the current season and determine qualification for high-profile events such as the World Grand Prix, Players Championship, and Tour Championship. Mark Selby leads the one-year list with £348,350 following the Shenzhen Open.
What prize money did Wu Yize receive for winning the Shenzhen Open?
Wu Yize collected a £177,000 champion’s cheque in Shenzhen, which propelled him to third place on the one-year rankings list with £204,000 total earnings for the season.
Where does Ronnie O’Sullivan stand in the official world rankings?
Ronnie O’Sullivan occupies the 13th position on the official two-year world ranking list with £513,750 in prize money.