Hendry’s Bold Claim
Stephen Hendry, a seven-time World Snooker Champion, speculated that Ding Junhui might be “fuming” after Zhao Xintong became China’s first Crucible winner, defeating Mark Williams 18-12 on May 5, 2025. Speaking on the Snooker Club podcast, Hendry suggested Ding, China’s snooker icon, could be envious of Zhao’s historic achievement, given his own failure to win the title in 2016. “Ding is snooker in China. Overnight, he’s not Mr. Snooker anymore,” Hendry said, per Express Sport. He acknowledged Ding might be supportive but argued the loss of his status as China’s top star could sting. On X, @Record_Sport echoed Hendry’s view, while @Pavlo__Escobar suggested Zhao’s win might “free” Ding from pressure.
Zhao’s Breakthrough vs. Ding’s Legacy
Zhao, 28, marked a seismic moment for snooker, becoming the first Asian champion and only the third qualifier to win at the Crucible, per The Guardian. His 18 centuries matched Ding’s 2016 record, showcasing his flair. Ding, who lost 18-14 to Mark Selby in the 2016 final, has long been China’s flagbearer, winning 15 ranking titles since his 2005 China Open triumph over Hendry. Despite Hendry’s claim, Ding congratulated Zhao on social media, saying, “The darkness we walked through was so everyone could see the light,” per @CGTNSportsScene. Zhao’s victory, watched by 150 million in China, elevates him to national hero status, potentially overshadowing Ding’s legacy.
