Zhao Xintong makes World Snooker Championship semis for first time

Zhao Xintong of China beat Chris Wakelin of England 13-5 in the quarterfinals at the World Snooker Championship in Sheffield, England, on Wednesday, advancing to the tournament's last four for the first time in his career.

Having led 12-4 after the first two sessions, Zhao sealed the deal in the 18th frame and became the fourth Chinese player to go so far at the World Championship after Fu Jiajun in 2006, Ding Junhui in 2016 and 2017, and Si Jiahui in 2023.

"I didn't set too high a goal for myself when I came to play," Zhao told reporters. "Now I'm in the last four, I think there is still space for me to improve. I believe I still have more potential."

Zhao will face English seven-time world champion Ronnie O'Sullivan in the semifinals after the 49-year-old defeated Si 13-9.

"O'Sullivan was my hero when I was a child," Zhao said. "It will be a great honor to play against him in the semifinals."

The other last four battle will be between three-time world champion Mark Williams of Wales and home world No. 1 Judd Trump. Williams edged John Higgins of Scotland 13-12 in the quarterfinals while Trump beat Belgium's Luca Brecel 13-8 to progress.

Both semifinals will begin on Thursday.