Zhao Xintong vs Ronnie O’Sullivan Preview & Prediction | 2025 World Snooker Championship | Semi-Final

Click here for today’s sports betting tips from our expert analysts!

Ronnie O’Sullivan continues his quest for a record eighth world title as he faces his third Chinese opponent in succession at the Crucible.

Start date/time: Thursday 1st May, 2025: UK – 1:00pm / US ET – 8:00am / US PT – 5:00am

How to watch on TV: UK – BBC & TNT Sports / US – Not televised

How to watch online: UK – BBC iPlayer, BBC Sport website & discovery+ / US – Cannot be streamed

Tickets: Visit here for the latest ticket information

Zhao Xintong vs Ronnie O’Sullivan prediction

Zhao Xintong swept into the last four with a dominant 13-5 victory over surprise quarter-finalist Chris Wakelin, who had taken the scalps of both Neil Robertson and Mark Allen earlier in the tournament.

The Chinese talent came through four rounds of qualifying to even reach the main draw of the Crucible, but his run to the semi-finals will not come as much of a surprise to snooker fans, who are well aware of his incredible talent.

The 2022 UK Championship winner, who recently completed a 20-month ban from the sport, will now take on former mentor Ronnie O’Sullivan after the seven-time champion held off a Si Jiahui comeback in the quarter-final, eventually prevailing 13-9.

The Rocket was far from his best in that encounter and is clearly struggling with his new cue, but his sheer experience and knowhow in the crucial moments has got him over the line in several frames where lesser players would have folded.

O’Sullivan has already eliminated two Chinese players in this year’s tournament but Xintong is likely to prove the toughest test. If the veteran doesn’t kick into gear, he could exit the tournament here. 

We’re backing Xintong, who has played the more consistent snooker in Sheffield, to reach the final.

Zhao Xintong vs Ronnie O’Sullivan tip: Zhao Xintong to win