Zhao Xintong sets up showdown with Ding Junhui at snooker world championships

Zhao Xintong will face compatriot and former world No 1 Ding Junhui in the second round of the 2026 World Snooker Championship later this week. Zhao, who became the first player from Asia to win the world title last year, said the event feels a bit different this year. “The pressure of defending the title is different from before, and I hope I can play even better in the next round,” the 29-year-old said after his first round win over Liam Highfield. Ding, who is playing at the Crucible for the...