Zhao Xintong’s Snooker Dominance: From World Champion to Players Championship Victory

Zhao Xintong, the reigning World Champion, continues to solidify his position as a leading force in professional snooker. Following a strong showing at the 2026 World Grand Prix and a determined run at the World Open, Zhao recently secured victory at the Players Championship, defeating John Higgins 10-7 in Telford on February 22, 2026. This win marks his fourth ranking title and underscores his remarkable consistency on the international stage.

World Grand Prix Performance

The 2026 World Grand Prix, held from February 3rd to 8th at the Kai Tak Arena in Hong Kong, showcased Zhao Xintong’s skill and resilience. He recorded a highest break of 145 during the tournament [1]. While he didn’t claim the title – losing in the final to Zhang Anda 10-6 – his performance highlighted the growing strength of Chinese players in the sport. The tournament saw a record nine players from mainland China reach the last 16 and six advance to the quarter-finals, with all four semi-finalists hailing from China [1].

Players Championship Triumph

Zhao Xintong’s momentum continued at the Players Championship, where he faced off against the experienced John Higgins. He delivered a “commanding finish” to win the match 10-7 [4], demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure. This victory adds to his impressive list of achievements, including becoming the first Chinese and Asian player to win the World Snooker Championship in May 2025 [1].

Reflections on Success and Future Goals

Despite his recent successes, Zhao Xintong remains grounded and focused on continuous improvement. Following a last-16 defeat to Gary Wilson at the World Open in Yushan, Jiangxi, China, he emphasized his unwavering passion for the sport. “Through the highest highs and the lowest lows, snooker has always been with me. I’ve never thought about walking away from it,” Zhao stated [1]. He acknowledges the increased expectations that come with being a World Champion but maintains a frame-by-frame, shot-by-shot approach to each match.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Zhao Xintong is also committed to fostering the growth of snooker in China. He hopes his experiences will inspire young Chinese players to pursue their dreams on the international stage and believes that increased participation will strengthen Chinese snooker as a whole [1].

Looking Ahead

With a World Championship title already under his belt and recent victories at the Players Championship, Zhao Xintong is poised for continued success. His dedication, skill, and unwavering love for the game position him as a dominant force in the world of professional snooker for years to come. His match against John Higgins at the World Grand Prix was also highlighted [2] and [3].