Zhao Xintong is just seven frames away from making history as the first Chinese winner of the World Snooker Championship, after finishing the opening day of the final with an 11–6 lead over Mark Williams.
The 28-year-old made a flying start, taking the first session 7–1 with two century breaks and some clinical play. Despite a fightback from 50-year-old Williams in the evening, Zhao held firm to keep a five-frame cushion in the best-of-35 contest.
Zhao is playing as an amateur after serving a 20-month ban for betting-related misconduct. He’s had a remarkable comeback, including a dominant 17–7 win over Ronnie O’Sullivan in the semi-final.
Williams, who is aiming to become the oldest world champion ever, showed resilience with some strong frame wins and clever safety play. But Zhao responded with brilliant breaks—including 96 and 71—to maintain control.
One highlight came when Zhao potted a red and beautifully moved the cue ball across the table to land on the blue, setting up a break that helped him pull ahead once again.
Williams did manage to win the final frame of the day after a tense battle, thanks to a bit of good fortune with a snooker behind the green.
The final continues on Monday at 16:00 CET, with Zhao needing just seven more frames to claim the title.
