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China's Wu Yize crowned world snooker champion after Crucible final triumph

From Hong Kong Free Press · (35m ago) English Positive tone

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Chinese snooker player Wu Yize, 22, won his first World Championship title on Monday, defeating Shaun Murphy 18-17.
  • Wu's victory follows that of Zhao Xintong, making him the second Chinese player to win the prestigious tournament.
  • The young player endured significant personal sacrifices, including sharing a bed with his father in a windowless flat while training in Sheffield, England.

The Crucible Theatre in Sheffield has witnessed another historic moment for Chinese snooker, with Wu Yize clinching his maiden World Championship title. At just 22, Wu's triumph over Shaun Murphy in a nail-biting final cements his status as a rising star and follows in the footsteps of his compatriot Zhao Xintong, who made history last year as the first Chinese champion.

His success definitely made me believe in myself more because he made history.

โ€” Wu YizeWu Yize on Zhao Xintong's previous World Championship win.

Wu's journey to the pinnacle of the sport is a testament to his dedication and the sacrifices made by his family. Reports highlight the extreme measures taken, including sharing a single bed with his father in a modest flat for three years while he honed his skills in England. This level of commitment underscores the immense pressure and ambition driving young Chinese athletes in pursuit of international glory.

He is a phenomenal player.

โ€” Ronnie O'SullivanRonnie O'Sullivan's assessment of Wu Yize's talent.

Nicknamed 'Priest Wu' for his composure and a past hairstyle, Wu has earned praise from snooker legends like Ronnie O'Sullivan, who predicted he would reach world number one. His success is not just a personal achievement but a significant moment for snooker in China, further popularizing the sport and inspiring a new generation of players. This victory, celebrated back home, reaffirms China's growing dominance in the global snooker arena.

His dad gave up his job, I donโ€™t think either of them could speak any English when they came over.

โ€” Rob WalkerBroadcaster Rob Walker describing the sacrifices made by Wu Yize's father.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hong Kong Free Press in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.