In a thrilling quarterfinal showdown featuring two players from the Chinese mainland at the WST Shanghai Masters, 28-year-old Zhao Xintong showcased complete dominance to defeat 38-year-old Ding Junhui 6-1. The reigning world champion opened with a blistering 134 break, setting the tone in Shanghai Municipality.
Ding Junhui answered with an 84 in the third frame, trimming the gap, but Zhao replied instantly with another century, a 132, to extend his lead to 3-1. From there, Zhao maintained precision control, landing breaks of 75, 75, and 119 to seal the victory.
"I focused on my pace and ball control and stayed immersed in the contest," Zhao said after the match. "Ding gave me opportunities, and I aimed to make the most of each shot."
Ding reflected on the loss, admitting that he couldn't shift the momentum after Zhao's fast start. "I had chances but couldn't capitalize. Zhao was in top form and seized every opportunity," he said.
Zhao will now face England's Kyren Wilson, who earlier ousted seven-time world champion Ronnie O'Sullivan 6-3. As Zhao eyes the title, the semifinals promise another high-stakes clash in one of snooker's most prestigious events.
Reference(s):
Zhao eases past Ding to advance to semifinals at WST Shanghai Masters
cgtn.com
