Classy Zhao Xintong wins UK Championship

By Darren Plant, Senior Reporter | 11mo

Zhao Xintong wins the UK Championship, comfortably defeating Luca Brecel by a 10-5 scoreline to win his first major title.

Zhao Xintong has recorded a 10-5 victory over Luca Brecel to win the UK Championship.

After a tournament where all the star names were eliminated to leave the 26th and 40th ranked players, Zhao produced a performance which suggested that he belongs in the upper echelons of the sport.

Having opened up a 5-3 lead at the interval, the Chinese posted 87 and 120 breaks upon his return, forcing Brecel to respond with a 64 of his own.

However, despite the scoreline being reduced to 8-5, Xhao rarely looked troubled and eventually sealed a famous win in fitting style, producing a 99 break.

Speaking to BBC Sport, Zhao said: "I am just so happy. It was an exciting night tonight and I love York.

"It was the biggest match for me and it was my first time, so I tried my best because it was Luca [Brecel]. I feel very, very happy now. I am very excited. The UK Championship is a snooker theatre of dreams."

Zhao enters the world's top 16 for the first time, also securing his place in the upcoming Masters.