Wu Yize’s recent victory at the 2026 World Snooker Championship marks another milestone for Chinese snooker, as he defeated Shaun Murphy 18-17 in a gripping final at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield. This win not only earns him £500,000 in prize money but also propels him to number four in the world snooker rankings.
Yize’s journey to this championship has been remarkable. Relocating from Lanzhou to the UK at just 16 years old, he immersed himself in the sport. His success now stands as a testament to his dedication and skill.
In this championship, Chang Bingyu also made headlines—though not for competing in the main tournament. He produced a stunning 147 maximum break during the qualifying stage, earning £172,000 despite not participating further. However, his recent history is marred by a match-fixing scandal that led to a 20-month ban.
Yize expressed gratitude towards his mother, stating, “My mum wasn’t in very good health condition for a long time. She sacrificed everything for me.” These words reflect not just personal triumph but also the emotional weight behind his success.
The final match showcased Yize’s resilience and skill against Murphy, making it one of the few finals to last the full 35 frames—an indication of both players’ determination. Judd Trump remains at the top of the rankings, but Yize’s rise signals a shift in competitive dynamics.
Key statistics:
- Prize money for Wu Yize: £500,000
- Total earnings for Chang Bingyu: £172,000
- Maximum break by Chang Bingyu: 147
- Wu Yize’s world ranking: 4
- Judd Trump’s world ranking: 1
- Zhao Xintong’s world ranking: 3
The next phase for many players will be participation in Q School tournaments from May 13 to May 31, 2026. This will determine who secures spots on the World Snooker Tour and possibly reshapes future rankings.