𝐄𝐒𝐏𝐍 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐅𝐈𝐑𝐌𝐄𝐃: 𝐉𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐌𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐀𝐠𝐨, 𝐄𝐮𝐫𝐨𝐬 𝐒𝐧𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫 𝐙𝐡𝐚𝐨 𝐗𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐩𝐬 𝐃𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐃𝐮𝐞 𝐓𝐨 𝐀 𝐒𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐄𝐫𝐫𝐨𝐫 𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠… 𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃 𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐄

According to ESPN, the decision comes after intense internal discussions and growing pressure surrounding governance, accountability, and integrity within elite snooker. While officials have stopped short of labeling the move a permanent exit, sources describe it as a decisive step taken to allow due process to continue without distraction.

Zhao Xintong, widely regarded as one of the most gifted players of his generation, has been a trailblazer for European and Asian snooker audiences alike. His aggressive style, composure under pressure, and historic tournament runs have earned him global admiration. However, the latest development marks a sharp and sobering turn in what was once a rapidly ascending career trajectory.

Snooker authorities emphasized that the situation does not erase Zhao’s past achievements but underscores the sport’s renewed commitment to transparency and ethical responsibility. “This is about protecting the integrity of the game,” a senior official told ESPN. “No individual is bigger than the sport.”

Fans across social media have reacted with a mix of disappointment, concern, and cautious support, with many calling for clarity and fairness as the situation unfolds. Others have urged patience, reminding the public that investigations and reviews take time.

As of now, no definitive timeline has been set for Zhao Xintong’s return, and further statements are expected in the coming days. For a sport already navigating a delicate period of reform, this moment may prove pivotal in shaping its future direction.