Wu Yize, the newly crowned snooker world champion, arrived in Xi’an on May 7, expressing his hope for the future of Chinese billiards: “I hope Chinese billiards will continue to improve, and more people will know and fall in love with this sport.” The 22-year-old champion appeared before eagerly waiting fans, and for a moment, the bustling venue fell silent before erupting in cheers.
On May 5, Beijing time, in the 2026 Snooker World Championship final, Chinese player Wu Yize defeated England’s Shaun Murphy 18-17 to claim the title. The following day after landing in Xi’an, he kept his promise and appeared at his first fan meeting back in China. From Sheffield to Chang’an, from the “snooker holy land” to the land of Sanqin, the young man who grew up in Northwest China received the most heartfelt cheers from fans in the ancient capital.
By 6 p.m. on the event day, two hours before the meeting began, the venue was already buzzing with excitement. Fans of all ages, from middle-aged players holding cues to teenagers in school uniforms, filled every corner. A spotlight above the central table was already lit, and a large screen in the background played highlights of Wu’s performance at the championship.
“I’ve been playing snooker for almost three years, and I noticed Wu Yize during the qualifying stages of this world championship. His style is sharp, his shots decisive, and what excites me most is that we’re both post-2000s, basically the same age,” said 17-year-old Zhang Zehui, clutching his cue stick in the crowd, eagerly hoping to play a game with Wu Yize or get an autograph.
At 8 p.m., Wu Yize appeared on time. Dressed in light casual wear, he looked thinner than on TV. Scanning the cheering crowd, he gave a slight, shy smile.
“I’m really excited,” he said briefly in response to the cheers, before the fan interaction began. Several lucky spectators were chosen to compete alongside him on stage. Bending, aiming, and striking, each shot was crisp and precise. With every cheer from the audience, his usually serious face finally showed a faint smile.
During the Q&A session, a fan asked about his favorite snooker player. Without hesitation, he replied, “O’Sullivan.” When asked who he would most want to face if he could replay the world championship final, he smiled and said, “Still Shaun Murphy, since I won.” Laughter and applause filled the room.
Wu Yize has previously said in interviews that “snooker is a quiet sport that requires calmness,” and that “too many moments of solitude” are part of the game. Perhaps that’s why the 22-year-old possesses a maturity beyond his years.
That evening was Wu Yize’s first public event since returning to China, and he chose Xi’an. Seven months ago, the 2025 World Snooker Xi’an Grand Prix was held in this ancient city, bringing together top players and sparking a snooker craze. Now, with the new world champion’s visit, that excitement has reignited.
The meeting lasted about an hour. At the end, fans eagerly surged forward for autographs and photos, one after another. Although slightly tired, Wu Yize sat quietly by the table, carefully completing each signature and photo opportunity. According to event organizers, that evening he accepted over three hundred photo requests from fans.
“He is a dark horse among China’s post-2000s snooker players. A young Chinese talent with a bright future,” said a middle-aged fan who traveled from Xianyang, repeatedly watching videos on his phone, reluctant to leave.
