Wu Yize’s father made significant sacrifices to support his son’s snooker career, including selling their family home and closing his small business. The 22-year-old emerged victorious in a thrilling match against Shaun Murphy, securing the World Snooker Championship title at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield.
This historic final, decided in the 35th frame, marked Wu as the second youngest world champion, earning him a substantial £500,000 prize and the prestigious trophy. Following in the footsteps of Zhao Xintong’s win in 2025, Wu became the second consecutive Chinese player to claim the world title, highlighting China’s growing prominence in the sport.
The story of Wu’s father’s sacrifices quickly spread on Chinese social media, with a viral hashtag detailing how he sold their home in Lanzhou to support Wu’s dream. Moved by his parents’ dedication, Wu expressed his gratitude during the emotional trophy ceremony, acknowledging them as the true champions who fueled his success.
The wave of support for Wu extended beyond his family, with Chinese snooker stars and associations celebrating his achievement. The victory not only solidified Wu’s place in history but also boosted snooker’s popularity in China, as evidenced by the overwhelming online response to his win.
Congratulations poured in from various quarters, including fellow snooker players, social media platforms, and official Chinese publications, all recognizing Wu’s remarkable journey from a young dreamer to a world champion. The triumph symbolized the rise of a new generation of Chinese snooker talent, with Wu proudly draped in the Chinese flag as a testament to his achievement.