Wuhan, August 30, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
China’s Chang Bingyu clinched his maiden ranking-event title at the World Snooker Wuhan Open, defeating newly crowned World No. 1 Zhao Xintong 10-7 in an all-Chinese final on Sunday.
Chang, 24, kept his composure in a dramatic deciding frame. With Zhao ahead on points and only the final black remaining, Chang laid a snooker that forced a foul before clearing four colours close to the cushion. He then potted the last black to win the frame by two points and secure the championship.
After shaking hands with Zhao, Chang covered his face with a towel as he struggled to hold back his emotions.
“This title means a lot to me. There was a period when I couldn’t participate in matches, then I came back and regained my professional status. Last year I reached a final, and now I finally won the title. I have really put in a lot over these years, that’s why I’m so emotional,” he said.
Chang had reached his first ranking final at the Scottish Open in December 2025, where he led Chris Wakelin 2-1 before losing eight consecutive frames.
“After that loss, I reminded myself every day that if I reached another final, I had to seize the opportunity,” he said.
His run to the Wuhan title included wins over fellow Chinese player Liu Hongyu, Ali Carter, former World No. 1 Judd Trump and seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan, whom Chang considers an idol.
“I never thought I could beat Zhao. I came into the match with the mentality of learning from him,” Chang said. “His game is both attractive and practical, and I have imitated many aspects of his style.”
Zhao, who had won all seven of his previous ranking finals, praised his compatriot despite the defeat.
“Although it’s a little disappointing, Chang Bingyu deserved to win. Many young players, including him, have already reached a very high level. I believe they will continue to get better,” Zhao said.
The Wuhan Open has now been won by Chinese players in three successive editions. This year’s semi-finals also showcased three generations of Chinese snooker, with Xiao Guodong, Zhao and Chang, born in the 1980s, 1990s and 2000s respectively, reaching the last four.
Chang said the breakthrough had also highlighted areas he still needed to improve.
“The gap between me and the world’s top 16 is still big. There were a lot of ups and downs emotionally in this match. I still need to work on my mentality and make myself more composed,” he said.
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