Bai Yulu fights back to defend Women's World Snooker Championship

China's Bai Yulu has become the first player in seven years to defend the World Women's Snooker Championship after the 21-year-old outclassed world number one Mink Nutcharut 6-4 in a gripping final in Dongguan, Guangdong Province.

This rematch of last year's nail-biting encounter - which Bai won 6-5 - unfolded as a showcase of two top seeds locked in a battle of nerves and precision.

The match swung like a pendulum. Thailand's Nutcharut, the 2022 champion, unleashed a 50-point run that seemed to seize control, only for a crucial error to hand Bai a narrow 51-50 frame win, nudging her ahead. Nutcharut responded fiercely, surging to a 4-2 lead and threatening to pull away. But Bai mounted a stirring comeback, preventing her rival from adding to the tally and leveling at 4-4.

In the decisive moments of the 10th frame, Bai stood on the precipice of victory, only to falter briefly and invite Nutcharut back into contention, hinting at the possibility of a decider. Yet, with steely composure, Bai reclaimed control and sealed the match 6-4.

"I played both finals on home soil," said Bai after her triumph. "I am very honored and happy to be watched winning this title by this crowd and I have gained more confidence after defending the title. I will be better in the future."

This victory not only cements Bai's place in snooker history but also underscores China's burgeoning dominance on the global stage, now holding both men's and women's world titles following Zhao Xintong's exploits earlier this month.