World Champion Zhao Xintong edged out compatriot Long Zehuang 5-4 in a thrilling all-Chinese showdown at the Snooker World Open in Jiangxi Province!
In a match that had fans glued to their screens 🎥, Zhao fired off a 95-point break to claim the first frame, but Long retaliated with back-to-back breaks of 81 and 92. The momentum swung like a pendulum ⏳—Zhao leveled at 2-2 before the interval, only for Long to claw back ahead 3-2 with gritty defense.
Zhao then unleashed 🔥: a 93-point break and a *stunning* 139-century break (his highest of the match!) put him one frame from victory. Long forced a decider by snatching the eighth frame, but Zhao sealed the deal with ice-cool precision 🧊, advancing to face England’s Sam Craigie on Wednesday.
What’s Next?
The 28-year-old star, currently ranked No. 7 globally 🌍, eyes his first World Open title this year. Can he keep the momentum? Tune in tomorrow! 👀
