Triple defeat! Snooker Masters report: The semifinals are set, Zhao Xintong loses 5-6 in a last-second kill & Higgins proves too tough

On January 16th Beijing time, the quarterfinals of the Snooker Masters kicked off with Chinese player Zhao Xintong taking on Higgins in a battle of generations. Zhao sadly endured a triple frame loss after holding a 5-3 lead, allowing Higgins to clinch a 6-5 win in a dramatic finish. It was a very unfortunate elimination. Higgins’ strength is undeniable, with his long pot accuracy being unstoppable and his luck holding strong!

Zhao Xintong has already won the UK Championship and World Championship titles, and only the Masters title remains for him to complete the career Grand Slam. This tournament presented that opportunity, and he started strong by defeating Gary Wilson 6-2 in the first round to reach the quarterfinals. In the quarters, he faced Higgins, the last remaining member of the 'Big Three' aged 75. Despite being 51 years old, Higgins remains top-class, not only extremely strong but also terrifyingly consistent. Zhao had to be cautious, as Higgins is a formidable all-rounder with a steady mindset—this match demanded Zhao’s full focus and careful preparation!

Once the match began, Zhao quickly found his rhythm, opening with a break of 89 points to seize the initiative. Higgins immediately responded with a century break of 114 to level the score. In the third frame, Zhao won 87-30 amid intense exchanges. Higgins then matched again with a 64-point break in the fourth frame. Zhao took the lead again in the sixth frame with a 74-point break. Higgins fought back with steady scoring, eventually winning 80-9. After six frames, the match was evenly poised at 3-3, highly competitive. Zhao then surged forward, winning two tightly contested frames to reach a 5-3 match point. Facing elimination, Higgins caught up by winning two frames to tie 5-5. The deciding frame was full of twists: Zhao initially scored 53 points, but missed a crucial red ball at the end. Higgins then took control to win the frame and the match 6-5, saving match points and becoming the first player to reach the semifinals!

From this match, Zhao appeared too casual, wasting three match points. Perhaps playing more defensively on the final red ball might have been better, but Zhao naturally chose to attack. Overall, Higgins showed great experience and also had some luck on his side. Zhao’s loss was not undeserved. Higgins was simply too strong. Zhao still needs to refine his ability to handle critical shots. The Grand Slam will have to wait; we’ll look forward to next year’s Masters!

Written by / Sports Novel