Snooker World Championship: O'Sullivan and Zhao Set for Intense Showdown

Ronnie O'Sullivan and Zhao Xintong end the first session level at 4-4 in the World Championship semi-final. Find out what happens next.

The first session of the World Championship semi-final between Ronnie Oskolnikov wasn't, Ronnie O'Sullivan and Zhao Xintong ended level at 4-4. Zhao made a strong start, taking a 2-0 lead with clinical breaks of 60 and 62. Despite being an amateur this season after returning from suspension, the 28-year-old Chinese player showed remarkable composure on his debut at the Crucaiuble's single-table setup.

Ronnie O'Sullivan responds to Zhao Xintong with three frames on the bounce 💪#WorldChampionship pic.twitter.com/Y9cYefhv60

— TNT Sports (@tntsports) May 1, 2025

Zhao's early dominance hinted at his vast natural talent, but O'Sullivan fought back to level the match. The session was marked by high-quality play, setting the stage for an intense battle in the evening session.

Ronnie O'Sullivan, a seven-time world champion, responded fiercely to Zhao's early lead. He compiled three consecutive half-century breaks to take a 3-2 advantage, showcasing his trademark ruthlessness. However, Zhao rebounded with a stunning 86 break, highlighted by a remarkable black down the right corner rail, to level the match at 4-4.

Ronnie O'Sullivan replies to Zhao Xintong's opening two frames with his own two frames, to make it 2-2 in the semi-final 🤝#WorldChampionship pic.twitter.com/QQYOH8iSTU

— TNT Sports (@tntsports) May 1, 2025

The session ended with both players having traded blows, setting up an intense showdown when the match resumes on Friday morning. O'Sullivan's experience and Zhao's youthful talent promise an electrifying contest as they battle for a spot in the final.

The high-stakes semi-final between Ronnie O'Sullivan and Zhao Xintong will resume on Friday, with both players vying for a spot in the final. O'Sullivan aims for a record eighth World Championship title, solidifying his status as one of the greatest players in modern snooker. Meanwhile, Zhao seeks to complete an extraordinary comeback story, defying expectations as an amateur competing in the prestigious tournament.

In the other semi-final, three-time champion Mark Williams will face off against 2019 winner Judd Trump, set to begin later at 19:00 BST. Both matches promise thrilling action as the world's top players battle for the championship.