'People take pictures of me at the airport' - Zhao reflects after Crucible victory and strong UK Championship start

Zhao Xintong Opens UK Championship Campaign in Style

World champion Zhao Xintong began his UK Championship title defense with an impressive first-round win, displaying the form that brought him success last season. He dominated his opponent with precise breaks and confident long pots, making a clear statement about his intentions to repeat his triumph.

Rise in Popularity and Recognition

Following his Crucible victory, Zhao noticed a significant rise in his public profile.

"People take pictures of me at the airport," Zhao said with a smile, reflecting on how fame has begun to change his everyday life.

Despite the attention, he remains grounded and focused on his snooker, emphasizing that concentration and discipline are key to sustaining success at the top level.

Focus on Consistency

Zhao acknowledged the challenges of staying consistent after winning major titles. He noted that the pressure to perform is always present, especially when facing lower-ranked players who see beating a champion as a career highlight.

Looking Ahead

With his smooth cue action and attacking style, Zhao aims to continue building momentum throughout the tournament. Analysts view him as one of the brightest stars in modern snooker, combining flair with composure far beyond his years.

"Winning once is difficult, but staying at the top is even harder," Zhao remarked, summing up the mindset that drives him forward.

Author’s summary: Zhao Xintong begins his UK Championship defense confidently while reflecting on newfound fame and the challenge of maintaining top-level consistency.

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BBC on MSN BBC on MSN — 2025-12-01

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