RIYADH — In a commanding display of break-building prowess, China's world champion Zhao Xintong defeated Australia's Neil Robertson 5-2 to claim the inaugural Riyadh Season World Masters of Snooker title, a historic event that marked the sport's first foray into Saudi Arabia.
The final, held at the Boulevard Arena, saw Zhao capture the trophy and a winner's cheque of £250,000, solidifying his status as one of the game's most explosive talents. "I am very happy to win this tournament," Zhao said through a translator. "It’s my first time in Riyadh and to win the first trophy here is a very special feeling for me."
A Historic Stage for the Green Baize
The Riyadh Season World Masters was not just another tournament; it was a landmark moment for snooker's global expansion. Featuring a select field of the world's top 10 players and two local wildcards, the event introduced the sport to a new audience in the Middle East. The atmosphere was electric, with a knowledgeable and enthusiastic crowd adding to the spectacle. The significance of the occasion was not lost on the players, with both finalists acknowledging the potential for growth in the region. Robertson, ever the ambassador for the sport, noted the warm reception and the potential for a lasting legacy, stating the event felt "like a major from start to finish."
Zhao's Relentless Scoring On Display
From the outset, Zhao demonstrated the fluid, attacking style that has made him a fan favourite and a feared opponent. The match was a high-quality affair, characterized by heavy scoring from both players, but it was Zhao who consistently capitalized on his opportunities. The Chinese star compiled a series of significant breaks that kept Robertson pinned in his seat for long periods. His ability to score heavily from minimal openings proved to be the decisive factor in the match. Key aspects of his victory included:
- Break-Building Dominance: Zhao registered breaks of 135, 120, 97, 78, and 56, showcasing his phenomenal potting and positional play.
- Mental Fortitude: After Robertson leveled the match at 2-2, Zhao won three consecutive frames, refusing to let his opponent build any momentum.
- Clinical Finishing: He repeatedly closed out frames in a single visit, denying Robertson the chance to counter-attack.
The Final: A Frame-by-Frame Account
The final unfolded as a masterclass in controlled aggression from Zhao. Robertson, a former world champion himself, fought valiantly but was ultimately outgunned by his opponent's relentless scoring.
A High-Octane Start
The match began at a blistering pace. Zhao immediately stamped his authority on the contest, taking the opening frame with a superb break of 78. Robertson responded in kind, leveling the match with a run of 76. The third frame saw Zhao restore his lead with a magnificent total clearance of 135, the highest break of the final. Just as it seemed Zhao might run away with it, Robertson dug deep, crafting a fine 98 break to go into the mid-session interval all square at 2-2.
Zhao Shuts the Door
The interval proved to be a turning point. Zhao returned with renewed focus and intensity. He dominated the fifth frame, and then, in a critical sixth frame, produced a stunning break of 120 to move to the brink of victory at 4-2. The seventh and final frame was a more fragmented affair, but it was Zhao who eventually potted the crucial balls to seal a 5-2 win, clinching the historic title. Reflecting on the match's pivotal moment after the interval, Zhao said, "I just tried to focus on my own game and take my chances when they came."
Robertson's Gracious Defeat
Despite the defeat, Neil Robertson was gracious in defeat and positive about the event. "It was a fantastic event, the crowd was amazing," the Australian commented. "Zhao was just too good today. His long potting was incredible and every time I made a mistake, he punished me with a big break. He's a fantastic player and a great champion." Robertson's praise highlighted the respect between the two players and acknowledged the sheer quality of snooker required to win at this elite level.
A New Frontier for World Snooker
The success of the Riyadh Season World Masters of Snooker cannot be overstated. For the World Snooker Tour (WST), breaking into the Saudi market represents a significant achievement in its global growth strategy. The event was staged with the professionalism and grandeur befitting a major tournament, complete with a unique golden table and a substantial prize fund. WST Chairman Steve Hearn was effusive in his praise, stating, "This has been a landmark moment for snooker. We have been welcomed with open arms in Riyadh."
The introduction of a special "Riyadh Golden Ball" — a 23rd ball worth 20 points available only to players who made a maximum 147 break — added an extra layer of excitement and innovation, though the bounty went unclaimed on this occasion. This inventive concept captured the imagination of fans and signaled a willingness to experiment with the format in new territories.
Conclusion: Zhao Announces His Return to Form
For Zhao Xintong, this victory is more than just another title; it is a powerful statement of intent. After a period of inconsistent results following his 2021 UK Championship win, this triumph on such a prominent stage signals a return to his best form. Defeating a player of Neil Robertson's caliber in a final demonstrates that Zhao possesses not only the raw talent but also the temperament to compete with the very best. His performance in Riyadh was a reminder of his breathtaking potential.
As the dust settles in the Boulevard Arena, the snooker world looks ahead with excitement. Zhao Xintong is once again a champion, and the sport itself has successfully planted its flag in a new part of the world. The future of snooker appears brighter and more global than ever, with the "Riyadh season" now a celebrated part of its history. The final word goes to the champion, who simply stated, "I hope this is the first of many trophies for me this season."
