Zhao Xintong Aims to Break the Crucible Curse at the 2026 World Snooker Championship
Zhao Xintong returns to the Crucible Theatre as the defending champion and the favourite to break snooker’s most enduring statistical anomaly: the Crucible Curse. No player who has won their first World Snooker Championship title at the Crucible since the tournament moved to Sheffield in 1977 has successfully defended it the following year. Zhao, who became China’s first-ever world champion by defeating Mark Williams 18-12 in the 2025 final, is now seeking to end a streak of 20 unsuccessful title defences by first-time winners.
According to snooker legend Stephen Hendry, Zhao possesses the scoring power and temperament to overcome the curse. Hendry stated that Zhao’s form is “on another level” compared to other top players and praised his recent tournament victories, including the World Grand Prix, Players Championship, and Tour Championship since February 2026. While acknowledging the difficulty of the draw, Hendry expressed confidence that Zhao could lift the trophy for a second time.
The Crucible Curse has affected every era of snooker greatness, from Steve Davis and Hendry to Ronnie O’Sullivan and John Higgins, all of whom failed to retain their maiden Crucible titles. Zhao’s challenge is further highlighted by the historical context: in the 49-year history of the World Championship at the Crucible, no first-time winner has ever won back-to-back titles.
Zhao’s campaign began with a strong opening performance, marking his intent to confront the curse head-on. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on whether he can defy nearly five decades of history and become the first player to break the Crucible Curse.