Zhao Xintong of China has secured his spot in the quarterfinals of the World Snooker Championship for the first time. On Sunday in Sheffield, England, Zhao overcame his compatriot Lei Peifan with a 13-10 victory, showcasing his skill and composure under pressure.
Leading 10-6 overnight, Zhao faced a fierce comeback from Lei, who won three consecutive frames to tighten the score to 12-10. However, Zhao remained undaunted. In the 23rd frame, he opened with an impressive 62-point run, prompting Lei to concede and sealing the match.
“I’m thrilled to reach the quarterfinals,” Zhao said after the match. “Lei is a fantastic player, and it was a tough battle.”
Zhao will next face qualifier Chris Wakelin in the last eight, a match that promises excitement for snooker fans worldwide.
In other matches, world number one Judd Trump reached a milestone by hitting his 100th century break of the season. Trump leads fellow Englishman Shaun Murphy 10-6 after overcoming a slow start to their second-round clash.
Meanwhile, China’s Si Jiahui holds a 9-7 advantage over Ben Woollaston in their contest. The young talent continues to impress as he aims for a spot in the quarterfinals.
Seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan is also on the brink of advancing, with a commanding 12-4 lead over China’s Pang Junxu. O’Sullivan dominated the afternoon session 6-2 and will conclude the match on Monday evening.
Luca Brecel of Belgium has a significant 12-4 advantage against China’s Ding Junhui. Brecel surged to an 11-1 lead, but Ding managed to halt his momentum slightly. Their match will resume with Brecel in a strong position to advance.
The World Snooker Championship continues to deliver thrilling matches, with emerging talents and seasoned veterans vying for the coveted title. Fans around the globe eagerly await the upcoming quarterfinal clashes.
