Zhao Xintong's reception on return to China speaks volumes after ban in home country

Newly-crowned Zhao Xintong was swarmed by adoring fans after returning to his homeland China on Thursday. Just three days after his over in Sheffield, the 28-year-old was greeted by cheers and celebratory signs upon landing at Shenzhen Bao'an Airport.

Swathes of people jostled to catch a glimpse or take a photo of the champion, which speaks volumes about the true scale of the support he has back in his home country.

The euphoric scenes came after Zhao to become champion, as well as the only Asian player to have clinched a title at the Crucible Theatre.

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Yet, despite his new-found hero status, regulations from the Chinese Billiards and Snooker Association (CBSA) stillin front of his home supporters.

In January 2023, Zhao received a ban due to his role in a match-fixing scandal that included nine other Chinese players.

While the investigation cleared him of fixing matches himself, he admitted to being aware of another player rigging two games and also betting on matches.

He originally received a 30-month ban from the World Snooker Tour which was later reduced to 20 months.

However, the CBSA, which had issued its own 30-month ban, upheld its original decision, meaning Zhao is still unable to compete in China.

"The Chinese Billiards and Snooker Association has now confirmed that their sanction only applies to mainland China and that Zhao Xintong is permitted to play in events outside of China from the end of his WPBSA suspension," their statement read.

From July 1, 2025, Zhao will be able to compete in tournaments on home soil.

He wasn’t allowed to take part in this year's World Open at the Yushan Sport Centre, which was won by John Higgins.

Following his Crucible triumph, the 2021 UK Championship winner has opened up about his struggles in dealing with his exile, even though it gave him more opportunities to hone his skills at the practice table.

And despite the stance of the Chinese authorities, Xintong, who lives just a 10-minute walk from the Crucible, voiced his love for his homeland when arriving at the airport.

Passing through a sea of adoring fans, he announced his aim of winning a Triple Crown and declared: "I'm home," before adding: “This will always be my home."