In the Masters Last-16 Showdown, Zhao Xintong faced off against Kyren Wilson, advancing decisively with a 6-2 victory. This match marked Zhao’s second appearance at Alexandra Palace, where he previously lost in 2022.
Zhao Xintong’s Remarkable Journey
Zhao made history in May as the first Asian player to win the world snooker title. His triumph at the Crucible was preceded by overcoming four qualifying matches. After that achievement, he continued to impress by becoming the third Chinese player to reach the Masters quarter-finals this year.
Match Highlights
- Wilson took an early lead with a break of 76.
- Zhao responded with four consecutive frames, featuring break scores of 50, 51, 54, and 72.
- During this run, Wilson managed only 10 points.
- Wilson rallied to win the sixth frame, narrowing Zhao’s lead to 4-2.
- However, Zhao quickly regained control, delivering a break of 67 in the eighth frame to secure the match.
This match had a notable consistency, with a 6-2 scoreline that has emerged in all four completed matches of the tournament so far.
Future Prospects for Zhao
Looking ahead, Zhao expressed his determination to improve further. After the match, he stated, “I know he [Wilson] is a very good player so I just wanted to have big breaks and didn’t want him to come back.”
Fans showed tremendous support, boosting his confidence as he aims for another win. The next stage of the tournament will see Zhao face either John Higgins, a four-time world champion, or Barry Hawkins, a two-time world runner-up.
This remarkable journey and performance by Zhao highlight his rising status in the world of snooker, especially as he continues to challenge for titles.
