Zhao Xintong stunned the snooker world by clinching the 2025 World Snooker Championship. His victory at Sheffield’s Crucible Theatre made him the first Asian player to win snooker’s most prestigious title. This achievement sparked celebrations in China and brought Zhao national hero status, with his win going viral on Chinese social media. However, Zhao’s triumph has not come without controversy. Many in the snooker community, including Shaun Murphy and Ali Carter. They have raised concerns about the circumstances surrounding Zhao’s participation and rapid rise in the rankings.
Shaun Murphy’s Objection and the Eligibility Debate
Shaun Murphy voiced strong objections after Zhao Xintong leapfrogged him and Ali Carter in the world rankings. Murphy argued that Zhao should not have been eligible to compete in the 2024-25 season due to an unresolved suspension by China’s snooker governing body, the CBSA. According to World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA) rules. A player must be in good standing with their national federation to participate in events. Since Zhao’s CBSA suspension was set to last until July 2025. Murphy and others believe Zhao’s entry into key tournaments violated these regulations.
Murphy’s concerns highlight a significant issue: the WPBSA and World Snooker Tour (WST) appeared to allow Zhao to compete despite the ongoing ban from his home federation. This decision has led to confusion and frustration among other players. Especially those directly affected in the rankings, such as Shaun Murphy and Ali Carter.
How Zhao Xintong’s Return Changed the Rankings
Zhao Xintong’s return to professional snooker was dramatic. After serving a 20-month suspension for his minor involvement in a betting scandal. Zhao was allowed to compete on the Q Tour, a secondary circuit for aspiring professionals. He dominated the Q Tour, winning four events in a row and securing his place back on the main tour for the 2025–26 season.
Despite technically being an amateur, Zhao qualified for the main stages of both the 2024 UK Championship and the 2025 World Championship. His World Championship victory meant he was instantly upgraded in the world rankings, jumping to 11th for the 2025–26 season. This leap pushed established players like Shaun Murphy and Ali Carter down the rankings, causing further discontent.
The Impact on Shaun Murphy’s Season
Shaun Murphy’s 2024–2025 season was strong by most standards. He posted impressive wins and high break scores in several tournaments, including the Tour Championship and the Northern Ireland Open. Despite these performances, the sudden rise of Zhao Xintong meant Murphy lost out on crucial ranking positions and potential seedings for future events.
Murphy’s frustration is understandable. He followed the rules and performed well throughout the season. Only to be overtaken by a player whose eligibility remained in question. This situation has fueled an ongoing debate about fairness and transparency in Snooker’s ranking system.
Ali Carter’s Frustration and the Broader Player Reaction
Ali Carter also expressed disappointment after being leapfrogged by Zhao Xintong. Carter was pushed out of the top 16, which impacts automatic qualification and seeding in major tournaments. For players like Carter and Shaun Murphy, the ranking shuffle has real career consequences, affecting their earnings and tournament opportunities.
Many players and fans have criticized the WPBSA and WST for inconsistent application of rules. The confusion over Zhao’s eligibility and the handling of ranking points for amateurs who win major titles have exposed gaps in the sport’s governance. Discussions continue about how to prevent similar controversies in the future.
The Future of Snooker After Zhao’s Victory
Zhao Xintong’s win is expected to boost snooker’s popularity in China, where the sport already enjoys a large following. His journey from suspension to world champion has inspired many young players and brought new attention to the game. However, the controversy surrounding his eligibility and the impact on established stars like Shaun Murphy has also highlighted the need for clearer rules and better communication from snooker’s governing bodies.
As the dust settles, the snooker world will watch closely to see how the WPBSA and WST address these issues. The careers of Shaun Murphy, Ali Carter, and Zhao Xintong remain in the spotlight as the sport navigates this turbulent chapter.