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Zhang Anda stuns Zhao Xintong in dramatic China Open decider

Posted : 12 August 2026

Zhang Anda produced one of the biggest shocks of the China Open first round, overcoming world number three Zhao Xintong 6-5 in a dramatic contest decided by a respotted black. The victory completed a remarkable comeback for the 19th-ranked Chinese player.

Zhao made the stronger start and moved 3-0 ahead, but Zhang gradually fought his way back into the match. He eventually turned the momentum around to take a 5-4 lead before the reigning world champion responded by forcing a deciding frame.

The final frame delivered an extraordinary finish. Zhang had built a 57-0 advantage, but Zhao fought back and the two players eventually battled over the black with the scores level. Zhang ultimately potted the black, sending the frame to a respotted-black shootout.

With the black placed again as the deciding ball, Zhang held his nerve to pot it and complete the upset. The result ended Zhao's hopes of progressing further on home soil, while Zhang moved into the next round against England's Chris Wakelin.

Reflecting on the dramatic conclusion, Zhang admitted that the tension had been difficult to handle. He said it had been his day but joked that he hoped he would not have to face another pair of black-ball finishes during the tournament.

Zhao was disappointed with his performance and accepted responsibility for the defeat. The world number three acknowledged that he made too many errors and felt his level was not good enough to justify victory.

The upset was not the only surprise in the opening round. Five-time world champion John Higgins, ranked fifth in the world, was also eliminated after suffering a 6-4 defeat against 2015 world champion Stuart Bingham.

Zhang's victory adds another chapter to his rivalry with Zhao. Earlier this year, Zhao defeated Zhang 10-6 in the World Grand Prix final in Hong Kong, while Zhang had also recorded a 6-5 victory over Zhou Yuelong in the semi-finals of that tournament.

 

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