The snooker world championship returned to Sheffield’s Crucible Theatre in 2025, captivating fans with its drama and historic moments. The event ran from April 19 to May 5, marking the 49th consecutive year at the legendary venue. This year’s tournament, officially named the Halo World Snooker Championship, featured the world’s top players vying for the sport’s most prestigious title.
Kyren Wilson’s Early Exit and the “Crucible Curse”
Kyren Wilson entered the 2025 snooker world championship as the defending champion, having claimed his first world title in 2024. Expectations were high, but Wilson’s campaign ended in heartbreak. In the opening round, he suffered a shock 10-9 defeat to debutant Lei Peifan, becoming the latest victim of the notorious “Crucible curse.” Since 1977, no first-time champion has successfully defended their title at the Crucible.
Wilson started strong, building a 6-2 lead, but Lei mounted an impressive comeback, winning six consecutive frames. Despite Wilson’s valiant effort to force a decider, Lei held his nerve with a break of 66 in the final frame. Wilson graciously praised his opponent, saying, “Take nothing away from Lei Peifan. He held himself together extremely well as a debutant and I wish him all the best”.
Ronnie O’Sullivan’s Pursuit of History
All eyes were on Ronnie O’Sullivan as he sought a record-breaking eighth world title. O’Sullivan began with a convincing 10-4 win over Ali Carter, shaking off concerns about his recent form and “stage fright”. Snooker legend Stephen Hendry declared O’Sullivan a serious contender, highlighting the champion’s skill and determination.
O’Sullivan’s journey included a semi-final clash with Zhao Xintong, where he ultimately fell short. Despite the loss, O’Sullivan’s presence and performance electrified the tournament. He remains committed to the sport, mentoring young talent and envisioning a future where he supports new generations of snooker players.
Zhao Xintong Makes History for China
The 2025 snooker world championship crowned a new champion in Zhao Xintong. Zhao defeated Mark Williams 18-12 in the final, becoming the first player from China to lift the trophy. His victory marked a significant milestone for Chinese snooker, reflecting the sport’s growing global reach.
Zhao’s journey was remarkable, especially as he returned to competition after a suspension. He overcame top contenders, including a dominant semi-final win over O’Sullivan. The final saw Zhao maintain composure and deliver high-quality snooker against veteran Williams. Who, at 50, became the oldest Crucible finalist in history.
Record-Breaking Audiences and Global Impact
The 2025 snooker world championship shattered viewing records. The tournament was streamed 29 million times across BBC iPlayer, the BBC Sport website, and the BBC Sport app-a 25 percent increase from the previous year. Television audiences peaked at three million during the final, with a total reach of 12.6 million viewers across BBC channels.
BBC Sport Director Alex Kay-Jelski praised the championship’s drama and the emergence of new stars. WST Chairman Steve Dawson highlighted the exceptional quality of play and the sport’s expanding fanbase, noting the tournament’s ability to deliver unforgettable moments.
Behind the Scenes: Mentorship and Resilience
After his early exit, Kyren Wilson revealed he received a private call from Ronnie O’Sullivan. O’Sullivan offered advice and support, encouraging Wilson to stay positive and focus on future goals. Wilson expressed gratitude for the gesture and said he is determined to follow O’Sullivan’s guidance as he prepares for next season.
The camaraderie among players and the willingness of legends like O’Sullivan to mentor rising stars reflect the unique spirit of the snooker world championship. This culture of support and resilience stands out as a defining feature of the tournament.
The Marathon of the Mind: Format and Endurance
The snooker world championship is known for its gruelling format. Matches are played over multiple sessions, testing players’ mental and physical endurance. Six-time champion Steve Davis described the event as a “marathon of the mind,” where the longer format allows competitors to recover from setbacks and showcase their resilience.
This year’s tournament featured 16 qualifiers and the top 16 ranked players, all battling for a share of the £2,395,000 prize fund. The winner received £500,000 and the coveted title of world champion.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Snooker
The 2025 snooker world championship demonstrated the sport’s enduring appeal and evolving landscape. With new champions emerging and legends still competing at the highest level, the event inspires fans worldwide. The Crucible remains the heart of snooker, hosting moments of joy, heartbreak, and history every spring.