Zhao Xintong Targets Exclusive Snooker Achievement at Welsh Open
World champion Zhao Xintong stands just four victories away from entering one of snooker's most exclusive clubs this week at the Welsh Open. The Chinese superstar is chasing his third consecutive ranking title, a feat achieved by only five players in the sport's history.
Remarkable Winning Streak Continues
The 28-year-old, nicknamed 'The Cyclone,' has transformed his season following a slow start after his Crucible triumph last May. His current winning run now stands at an impressive 11 matches after victories over Fan Zhengyi and Stan Moody in Llandudno this week.
Zhao will face former world champion Stuart Bingham in Thursday night's last 16 encounter, with the winner moving one step closer to the Welsh Open trophy. The tournament represents the third leg of what could become a historic triple crown of ranking event victories.
Recent Dominance on the Circuit
Earlier this month, Zhao claimed the World Grand Prix title in Hong Kong, defeating snooker legends John Higgins and Mark Selby before overcoming Zhang Anda in the final. He immediately followed this success with victory at the Players Championship in Telford, where he showcased his resilience by battling back from behind against Elliot Slessor and Mark Allen.
The Chinese star's triumph over Higgins in Sunday's final was particularly significant, as it marked his fifth ranking title from five ranking finals - a statistic shared only with snooker greats Steve Davis, Mark Williams, and Neil Robertson.
Joining Snooker's Elite Company
Should Zhao complete his triple crown at the Welsh Open, he would join an exclusive group of players who have won three consecutive ranking events. The last player to achieve this was Judd Trump in 2023, while only four others have managed the feat throughout snooker history: Ray Reardon, Steve Davis, Stephen Hendry, and Ding Junhui.
"I just think I'm the lucky one because I play not really, really well but I got the trophy," Zhao told BBC Wales with characteristic humility after his Players Championship victory. "I just want to enjoy the snooker table. I just want to enjoy every tournament."
Growing Confidence and Maturity
The world champion attributes his recent success to increased mental resilience and confidence. "I think I've grown up," Zhao explained. "Before if I play Mark [Williams], John, Ronnie [O'Sullivan], when I'm 1-3 down or 2-4 down I think game over. But now I think maybe I can come back and I can do much better. I have confidence now."
Higgins described Zhao as a 'genius' after watching him compile breaks of 104, 126, and 92 during their final encounter, highlighting the technical brilliance that complements his newfound mental strength.
Busy Schedule Ahead
The world champion faces a demanding schedule in the coming months, with the World Open in Yushan and the Tour Championship in Manchester scheduled before he begins his world title defense in April. Despite the intense competition and travel demands, Zhao remains focused on maintaining his current form.
Zhao's pursuit of history continues this week in Wales, where each victory brings him closer to joining snooker's most elite company. His remarkable consistency and growing confidence make him the player to beat as the Welsh Open reaches its critical stages.
