Mark Williams gives 'frightening' verdict on Zhao Xintong - 'It looks a bit erratic'

Mark Williams has expressed his awe at the "frightening" talent of new World Snooker Champion . Zhao made history as the first Chinese player to clinch the title, defeating Williams 18-12 in Sheffield across Sunday and Monday. Post-match, Williams, 59, likened prowess to that of some of the sport's legends.

The Welsh star praised his opponent's seemingly carefree approach, despite noting that his playing style can seem somewhat "erratic". "He's close to as good to watch as [Ronnie] when he was younger," said. "He just walks around the table as if he's just walking to go to the toilet or something.

"He's just strolling. Pots from anywhere. Walks around not a care in the world. Two minutes later he's on 65. Gee whizz. He's got to 60 like that. Frightening

"He goes for his shots and he got most of them in the final. Really tough shots. They don't go in all the time, and when they don't go in it looks a bit erratic. But when they go in, you don't want to be on the other side of him, that's for sure."

Zhao, who ousted O'Sullivan in the semi-final, embarked on his championship journey 29 days ago, having to win four qualifying matches. In addition to pocketing £500,000 in prize money, he will now jump to 11th in the world rankings.

Zhao is set to make a return to the main professional tour next season after his career was abruptly halted due to sanctions imposed on him, and nine other Chinese players in 2023, following a match-fixing probe. While Zhao did not throw a match himself, he accepted charges of betting on matches and being aware of another player fixing two matches, which saw him receive a 20-month ban.

However, Williams has nothing but high praise for Zhao, adding: "Some of the balls he can pot is unbelievable. He's probably the best potter I've ever seen. I'm glad he's not my rival. To do what he's done, he's been out for two years, come back on the Q Tour, pretty much won every game.

"Gone to qualifying, bashed everyone up. Come here and bashed everyone up in the main tournament. It's an incredible achievement. It's unbelievable. I haven't got enough nice words to say about him. He's brilliant to watch, pots for fun, makes breaks and good luck to him."

The 28-year-old, who had only won one match at the Crucible before this year, shared his admiration for Williams after he took the title.

"This is like a dream. I can't believe it," Zhao told BBC Sport. "There was big pressure and big nerves. I knew if I missed he could come back quickly. I was so nervous tonight. Mark is still a top player and put me under so much pressure. He's the best."