Reigning world snooker champion Zhao Xintong dazzled spectators with a remarkable one-handed trick shot during his second-round match against Long Zehuang at the World Open.

The Spectacular Deciding Frame

In the ninth and decisive frame, Zhao led 116-1 while lining up the pink. After potting the green, he placed his right hand flat on the table, gripped the cue butt with his left hand, and leaned over to execute the one-handed pot. The Yushan Sport Centre erupted in applause as the ball dropped perfectly, allowing him to complete a 129 clearance and secure a 5-4 victory.

The feat echoed Mark Williams’ iconic one-handed black against Barry Hawkins at the recent Welsh Open. Fans online hailed Zhao as “the young Mark Williams,” noting the 22-year age difference, with comments like “Class is permanent” and “Nicely done.”

Showmanship from the Start

Zhao’s flair shone early, leading 81-21 in the opening frame. He potted the yellow with the cue ball just above the blue by elevating the rest without touching the table—an air shot that set the tone.

This triumph advances the 28-year-old world No. 5 to the third round against Sam Craigie, marking his deepest run in the tournament. Zhao seeks a third ranking title this season, following back-to-back wins at the Players Championship and World Grand Prix in February.

Eyes on the Crucible

Next up is the Tour Championship in Manchester, then a return to the Crucible Theatre for the World Championship defense. Zhao stated at the Welsh Open, “I’m looking forward to it, but no pressure, enjoy every frame.”

As the latest first-time champion, he faces the ‘Crucible curse’—no defending winner has repeated since Mark Selby in 2016-2017. Ronnie O’Sullivan achieved it in 2012-2013, the first since Stephen Hendry’s 1990s streak. Zhao’s prior best was a 2022 second-round loss to Stephen Maguire; his debut ended against Selby three years earlier.