China’s reigning world champion Zhao Xintong pulled off a stunning 6-5 victory over England’s four-time former world champion Mark Selby in Nanjing, booking his place in the WST International Championship semifinals. The win marks Zhao’s first-ever come-from-behind triumph against Selby and highlights his growing dominance on the world stage.
Selby, nicknamed the Jester from Leicester, started fast with breaks of 55, 78, and centuries of 118 and 97 to build a 4-2 lead. But the 28-year-old Zhao found his groove in frames seven through nine, producing breaks of 68, 97 and 55 to surge ahead 5-4.
In frame ten, Selby fought back with a determined 81 break, forcing a decider. The final frame was a nail-biter, but Zhao held his nerve, compiling a match-winning break of 63 to seal the victory and avenge his early-season struggles.
With this momentum, Zhao now faces compatriot Wu Yize in an all-Chinese semifinal showdown. Both players represent the next wave of Asian talent making waves across G20 snooker circuits, promising a high-stakes clash in the heart of Nanjing.
The WST International Championship continues to showcase Asia’s growing influence in the sport, with Zhao’s comeback adding fresh excitement for global fans and young athletes alike.
Reference(s):
Zhao Xintong to face Wu Yize in all-Chinese semifinal at snooker event
cgtn.com
