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Zhao Xintong Crowned Riyadh Season Snooker Champion: A Complete Recap
Zhao Xintong has emerged victorious at the Riyadh Season Snooker Championship, defeating Neil Robertson 5-2 in a compelling final. this win marks a meaningful moment in his career and adds another chapter to a season already brimming with diverse champions.
A Season of Firsts
Notably, Zhao’s triumph represents the 11th different winner in 11 professional circuit events this season. He secures a considerable £250,000 prize for his success in Saudi Arabia. This outcome underscores the growing competitiveness and depth of talent within professional snooker.
The Final Showdown: Zhao vs. Robertson
The match began with a shared opening, but Zhao quickly gained momentum. He then unleashed a series of notable breaks, including scores of 131 and 134, to establish a commanding 4-1 lead.
Robertson fought back with a well-crafted 91 break, narrowing the gap. However, Zhao remained composed and sealed his victory with a solid half-century in the seventh frame.
“I didn’t want Neil to know I was nervous,” zhao shared after the match. “I was looking forward to this final a lot because Neil is a very good player and someone I wanted to play. I am so happy now.”
He also expressed his gratitude for the eager support he received. “It’s been amazing this week.It’s my frist time in Saudi and I could see a lot of people were here for me.”
Road to the Final: Key Matches
Zhao’s path to the championship wasn’t without it’s challenges. He previously overcame world number one Judd Trump in a dramatic 4-3 semi-final encounter.
* Trump initially led 2-0 and later 3-2.
* Zhao demonstrated resilience, registering a week-high break of 138 against Trump.
* Ultimately, zhao’s determination proved decisive in securing his place in the final.
Robertson also had a strong run, defeating Mark Allen 4-1 in his semi-final match. He had been aiming to become the first player this season to claim multiple titles.
Robertson Reflects on the Final
Despite the loss, Robertson acknowledged Zhao’s superior performance. “A few tired misses I suppose were quite costly [against Zhao],” he stated. “I was well below the level I had shown in getting to the final and he punished me realy well.”
A Near Miss for History
Earlier in the tournament,a remarkable moment unfolded during Robertson’s match against Mark Allen.Allen came incredibly close to achieving a historic 167 break.
* He cleared nine reds with blacks.
* He faltered on 72 while attempting a 147.
* A successful pot of the 20-point golden ball would have resulted in a 167 break and a $1 million (£763,000) bonus.
While the attempt ultimately fell short, it highlighted the potential for extraordinary plays within the sport.
This championship win solidifies Zhao Xintong’s position as a rising star in the world of snooker. You can expect to see continued success from this talented player as the season progresses.
