China’s Zhao Xintong has made history by advancing to the semifinals of the World Snooker Championship for the first time in his career. The 26-year-old defeated England’s Chris Wakelin 13-5 in the quarterfinals at Sheffield’s Crucible Theatre on Wednesday.
Leading 12-4 after two sessions, Zhao secured his victory in the 18th frame, becoming only the fourth Chinese player to reach this stage of the prestigious tournament, following in the footsteps of Fu Jiajun in 2006, Ding Junhui in 2016 and 2017, and Si Jiahui earlier in 2023.
“I didn’t set too high a goal for myself when I came to play,” Zhao told reporters. “Now I’m in the last four, I think there is still space for me to improve. I believe I still have more potential.”
Zhao’s next challenge is a clash against English seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan, who defeated Si Jiahui 13-9 to secure his semifinal spot. “O’Sullivan was my hero when I was a child,” Zhao said. “It will be a great honor to play against him in the semifinals.”
The other semifinal will feature three-time world champion Mark Williams of Wales facing off against England’s world No. 1 Judd Trump. Williams edged Scotland’s John Higgins 13-12 in a thrilling quarterfinal, while Trump overcame Belgium’s Luca Brecel 13-8 to advance.
Both semifinals are set to begin on Thursday, promising an exciting showdown as the players compete for a place in the final.
