Summary
Zhao Xintong, the reigning world snooker champion from China, won his first match at the UK Championship. He defeated fellow Chinese player Long Zehuang in a decisive 6-1 match. Zhao recently made history as the first Chinese player to win the World Snooker Championship.
Key Facts
- Zhao Xintong is the current world snooker champion.
- He beat Long Zehuang 6-1 in the first round of the UK Championship.
- Zhao became the first Chinese player to win the World Snooker Championship in May.
- Zhao's victory over Long included impressive breaks, which are high-scoring turns, of 107, 68, 51, 59, 52, and 72.
- Zhao has faced challenges, including a suspension related to a corruption scandal.
- Twelve of the 32 players at the UK Championship are from China, the most ever in this event.
- Zhao is adjusting to life as a famous athlete, noting increased public recognition back home.
- His family found watching his World Championship final too stressful and only learned of his victory afterward.
