Zhao Xintong became the first Chinese world champion by beating Mark Williams in the final on Monday.
This breakthrough moment for China has fuelled hope for the sport to be included in the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.

What happened?

Zhao Xintong thrashed snooker great Ronnie O'Sullivan 17-7 in the semi-finals, dispatching the seven-time champion with a session to spare at the Crucible Theatre.

Why it matters for Zhao Xintong

Jason Ferguson, chair of the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association, insists that snooker's inclusion in the Olympic programme is now realistic, given China's importance to the IOC.

What comes next?

Ferguson has no doubt that Zhao's triumph will further fuel snooker's growth in China, with the 28-year-old already looking to win more tournaments and attract more people to the sport.

Zhao told China's state news agency Xinhua that he realised his victory was important for Chinese snooker.
He believes he can win more tournaments in the future.

The World Snooker Championship win is a significant milestone for Zhao Xintong, who is now a national hero in China.
His victory has sent shockwaves through the snooker world, with many believing it will boost the sport's chances of being included in the Olympics.

Jason Ferguson told the BBC that Australia is a target for snooker's Olympic bid.
He said the sport's increasing global reach, especially in Asia, could make it more attractive to the IOC.

Zhao Xintong's win has sparked hope for the sport's future, with many believing it will inspire a new generation of players in China.
His success is a testament to the country's growing investment in snooker, with the sport now treated like any national sport.

The 28-year-old's eyes are now on further silverware, and he will surely relish the opportunity to show off his skillset on the Olympic stage.
He will refresh himself and look forward to a brand-new start of his career.

The World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association will continue to push for snooker's inclusion in the Olympics.
The sport's growing popularity in China and Asia will be a key factor in its bid.

Zhao Xintong's World Snooker Championship win is a historic moment for the sport.
It has sparked hope for the sport's future and will inspire a new generation of players in China.

The sport's increasing global reach and growing popularity in China make it an attractive option for the Olympics.
The World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association will continue to push for its inclusion.