Zhao Xintong suspended as snooker match-fixing probe continues

Former UK Championship winner Zhao Xintong has been announced as one of two Chinese players suspended from snooker as the sport’s match-fixing investigation continues.

The World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPSBA) announced on 3 January that Zhao and his compatriot Zhang Jiankang will both be suspended. The announcement takes the number of suspended players – all from China – up to 10, as the match-fixing investigation continues to cast a shadow over the sport.

Both Zhao and Zhang have the right to appeal against the decision.

Zhao claimed his first ranking title after defeating Luca Brecel 10-5 in the 2021 UK Championship, securing an impressive Triple Crown victory and booking a place in the imminent Masters tournament. He had been due to play four-time world champion Mark Selby in the first round of the Masters on Sunday 8 January – he will likely be replaced by Hossein Vafaei.

A statement issued by the WPBSA on 3 January read: “WPBSA Chairman Jason Ferguson has taken the decision to suspend Zhao Xintong and Zhang Jiankang from attending or competing on the World Snooker Tour with immediate effect.

The suspension will remain in place until the conclusion of the investigation

– WPBSA

“This decision is part of an ongoing investigation into allegations of manipulating the outcome of matches for betting purposes in breach of the WPBSA Conduct Regulations.

“The suspension will remain in place until the conclusion of the investigation or any subsequent charges that may or may not be brought. Both Zhao and Zhang have the right to appeal this decision.

“The WPBSA can confirm that the wider investigation is now at an advanced stage, and it is anticipated will be completed shortly at which point any potential charges will be considered.

“No further comment will be made at this time, except in the event of any significant further developments.”

In October last year, Liang Wenbo was suspended pending the results of a misconduct investigation. Five players were suspended in early December, closely followed by 2021 Masters champion Yan Bingtao and Chen Zifan.