Wu Yize’s father made significant sacrifices to support his son’s journey to becoming the world champion in snooker. He sold their family home in Lanzhou, China, and closed his antique shop to fund Wu’s pursuit of the prestigious title. In a thrilling final at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, the 22-year-old defeated Shaun Murphy 18-17 in a gripping 35th-frame decider, clinching a prize of £500,000.
This victory made Wu the second youngest champion in snooker history and the second consecutive Chinese player to claim the world title, following Zhao Xintong’s win in 2025. Wu’s parents, who were deeply moved during the trophy ceremony, played a crucial role in his success. Wu expressed his gratitude, stating that his parents are his true champions and the source of his strength.
The news of Wu’s triumph spread rapidly on Chinese social media platforms, with hashtags about his father’s sacrifices and his journey gaining millions of views. The rise of Chinese snooker stars like Wu has fueled a surge in the sport’s popularity in China, as evidenced by the overwhelming support and online engagement following Wu’s historic win.
Congratulations poured in from fellow Chinese snooker players, with last year’s champion Zhao and trailblazer Ding Junhui praising Wu’s achievement on social media. The Dongguan Billiards Association, where Wu honed his skills, highlighted his growth from a dreamer to a world champion as a testament to the emerging strength of Chinese snooker.
Wu, draped in the Chinese flag after his victory, received accolades from various quarters, including the official Communist Party newspaper, People’s Daily. The widespread acclaim and support for Wu underscore the growing influence and success of Chinese snooker players on the international stage.