Prior to his World Championship triumph in May, Zhao Xintong had secured only two professional titles.
World Champion Zhao Xintong is set to face World Number Two Kyren Wilson in the Shanghai Masters semi-finals, following their respective victories over Ding Junhui and Ronnie O’Sullivan.
Wilson, the 2024 World Champion, secured a commanding 6-3 victory against seven-time Crucible winner O’Sullivan, marking his third consecutive win against the decorated player.
Reflecting on his journey, Wilson, who claimed his first of 10 career titles in Shanghai in 2015, stated: “This event transformed my career a decade ago. I lacked direction and was ranked in the 50s and 60s.”
Zhao, competing for the first time since his World Championship victory in May, cruised to a 6-1 win against fellow countryman Ding Junhui.
The Chinese competitor showcased his prowess with breaks of 134, 132, and 118, sealing the victory in under 90 minutes.
The other semi-final will feature an all-English clash between Mark Selby and Ali Carter.
Four-time World Champion Selby overcame World Number One Judd Trump with a 6-4 scoreline, highlighted by a top break of 137.
Carter, demonstrating resilience, rallied from a 2-5 deficit for the second consecutive match, ultimately clinching the deciding frame to defeat Wuhan Open champion Xiao Guodong 6-5.
Selby and Carter are scheduled to compete on Friday, August 1, followed by the highly anticipated match between Wilson and Zhao on Saturday, August 2.
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