World Snooker Champion Zhao Xintong narrowly defeated compatriot Long Zehuang 5-4 in a gripping second-round match at the Snooker World Open in Shangrao, China's Jiangxi Province, on Tuesday. The victory propels Zhao into Wednesday's third round against England's Sam Craigie.
The match began with Zhao demonstrating his signature precision, securing the first frame with a 95-point break. Long responded fiercely, claiming the next two frames with breaks of 81 and 92 points. Zhao leveled the score 2-2 before the interval with a 92-point run, setting the stage for a tense second half.
Long briefly regained momentum in the fifth frame through strategic defensive play, but Zhao countered with dominant breaks of 93 and 139 points to lead 4-3. Though Long forced a deciding frame by winning the eighth, Zhao sealed victory with his second century break of the match.
The 28-year-old champion's performance underscores China's growing prominence in professional snooker. Wednesday's third-round match will test Zhao's stamina as he aims to claim his first World Open title since 2022.
