Zhao Xintong emerged from a tougher than expected opening-round clash against Liam Highfield as the 2026 World Snooker Championship commenced on Saturday.
SnookerHQ News
Emotional John Virgo tribute at the Crucible – watch the moment
The 2026 World Snooker Championship began with a poignant and emotional tribute to John Virgo at the Crucible Theatre on Saturday.
‘I’m a paranoid mess’ – Mark Williams on snooker yips concerns
Mark Williams launches his bid to win a fourth Crucible crown on Saturday when he takes on Antoni Kowalski on day one of the 2026 World Snooker Championship in Sheffield.
2026 World Snooker Championship: Round 1 preview and predictions
The draw for the 2026 World Snooker Championship has thrown up several fascinating first-round encounters at the Crucible Theatre.
Who are the Crucible debutants at the 2026 World Snooker Championship?
While the spotlight naturally falls on the title favourites, the early rounds of the World Snooker Championship often introduce new names to a wider audience.
How Zhao Xintong could become world number one by just £1,000
There is a slim but very real possibility that Zhao Xintong could end the 2025/26 snooker season as the world number one.
‘Right now I feel like I don’t want to play’ – Ken Doherty on retirement plans
Ken Doherty hasn’t decided whether or not he will try to extend his career on the World Snooker Tour.
Only four have done it – can Zhao Xintong join an exclusive Crucible club?
Only four players have managed to defend the World Snooker Championship title at the Crucible Theatre.
World Snooker Championship 2026: Seeds analysed and form guide
With the 2026 World Snooker Championship draw now set, the focus shifts to the players who will be expected to contend for the title in Sheffield.
Ali Carter: ‘I don’t want to play Ronnie O’Sullivan again’
Ali Carter joked that he’d prefer to avoid Ronnie O’Sullivan this year after sealing his place in the 2026 World Snooker Championship draw.