Zhao Xintong got here out as a 10-6 winner in Sunday’s remaining in Telford as he prepares to defend his World Championship title later this 12 months
John Higgins was left in awe of Zhao Xintong (Picture: Getty)
John Higgins has labelled Zhao Xintong as a ‘genius’ after falling to defeat to him within the Participant’s Championship remaining over the weekend. Zhao got here out as a 10-7 winner within the remaining in Telford on Sunday, claiming the £150,000 prize cash.
Higgins had held a 7-6 lead within the match, however Zhao gained 4 straight frames to say victory and clinch his second straight rating title. The win comes after a victory on the World Grand Prix earlier this month.
The comeback noticed the 28-year-old rating back-to-back centuries to assist see out the match. The standard on present from the reigning world champion left Higgins in awe.
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“I had the chance with the crimson, I may have gone 7-5 in entrance. That was the prospect,” he mentioned after the ultimate. “I could not pot an extended ball all day and Zhao does not actually miss any lengthy balls. The final three frames, there it was, completely poetry in movement.
“I can all the time keep in mind my dad saying issues like he was fortunate to see individuals like George Greatest and Jimmy Johnson. The snooker gamers, I am certain my children are fortunate that they’ve watched anyone like Xintong as a result of he’s an absolute genius. A genius.”
Zhao Xintong beat John Higgins to say the gamers Championship title (Picture: Getty)
When requested if he was impacted by nerves and fatigue, Higgins added: “No, in no way. I felt completely nice. I felt actually, actually good, however I simply could not pot the lengthy balls.
“Then you definately’re considering, ‘You have to get them as a result of if you aren’t getting them, you understand he will punish you.’ As I say, the final three frames, it was a pleasure to observe though I used to be on the receiving finish.”
The Chinese language participant could now have eyes on defending the World Championship title he gained in Sheffield final 12 months. The event begins in mid-April.
Requested concerning the event, he mentioned: “I simply need to benefit from the snooker, benefit from the desk and I am very joyful to have quite a lot of mates right here to see me play snooker. I actually take pleasure in that.”
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