Importance Score: 45 / 100 🔵
A British snooker player is set to benefit from Zhao Xintong’s stunning World Championship victory. The Chinese competitor triumphed over Mark Williams to secure his inaugural Crucible title, entering the competition as a qualifier. This unexpected win has significant implications for other aspiring professionals seeking a spot on the World Snooker Tour (WST).
Dylan Emery Secures Tour Card Following Zhao Xintong’s Triumph
Zhao Xintong initially secured a two-year tour card through the amateur Q Tour standings. He is currently revitalizing his career following a 20-month suspension for involvement in a match-fixing controversy. His victory in Sheffield, followed by a rise to No. 11 in the world rankings, guarantees his official return to the tour. Consequently, his prior Q Tour qualification becomes irrelevant, paving the way for the next highest-ranked player from the European qualifying campaign to receive a coveted professional tour card.
Welshman to Join Professional Ranks
Dylan Emery, a 24-year-old Welsh talent, is now poised to embark on the professional tour next season. Emery’s opportunity arises directly from Zhao’s achievement.
Rising Star Gets His Chance
Emery is considered one of Britain’s most promising snooker players. His entry into the tour is a direct result of Zhao’s Championship victory. He has previously reached the round of 32 in seven ranking tournaments, though he hasn’t yet progressed into the main draw of the World Championship.
A formal statement from the World Snooker Tour affirmed:
- “With overall Q Tour Europe winner Zhao Xintong having subsequently gone on to regain his place as a top 64 player following his historic success at the recent World Championship.”
- “In accordance with the Q Tour entry conditions, which state that the top-ranked eligible player will receive a World Snooker Tour card, Emery will therefore take the place.”
Controversy Over Zhao Xintong’s Ranking Points
The WST recently caused a stir by declaring that Zhao’s ranking points would be reinstated to his profile for the upcoming season – despite the fact that the 28-year-old is technically an amateur player. Standard regulations stipulate that amateur competitors’ points are reset after each season. Under these standard rules, the new world champion would begin the 2025-26 season with zero ranking points.
However, the WST has stated that Zhao will commence the next term with the 500,000 points earned from winning the World Championship. These rankings are based on total prize money acquired over a two-year span.
Players Express Frustration
World No. 9 Shaun Murphy has indicated that several players are reportedly “fuming” about this decision, arguing that WST is acting against its own established rules as outlined in the entry pack agreed to by each player at the beginning of every season.