Zhao Xintong's support from Stephen Hendry, luxury holidays and practice during ban

In a remarkable return to the Crucible, triumphed in the final, pulling off a phenomenal victory after a from professional play. He overcame in a thrilling , becoming not only the first Asian to take the crown, but also the first amateur champ.

Though widely celebrated, Zhao's win is not without scrutiny due to his earlier entanglement in a . From January 2023 to August 2024, Zhao served a ban related to the most extensive fixing scandal in history. During this period, he lived a life that combined high-end escapades, serious practice, and encouragement from none other than snooker great . Here, Express Sport takes a look into how Zhao filled his time during his suspension - balancing indulgence and determination.

British Museum

Despite the ban, Zhao spent time in Britain ahead of the 2023 championship. A memorable moment was his visit to London's British Museum.

He posted a photo beside the statue of King Ramesses II, a towering Egyptian pharaoh. The immense sculpture, weighing more than seven tons, stands prominently in the museum's Egyptian wing, near the famed Rosetta Stone.

This visit may suggest Zhao's intellectual curiosity and a need to find perspective during a period of personal and professional uncertainty.

White Cliffs of Dover

Zhao also took a trip to the White Cliffs of Dover, capturing a scenic shot with the cliffs and the sea behind him. It seemed to be a chilly November afternoon in 2023, but Zhao was well-dressed for the occasion in a cosy-looking designer Prada coat.

The location's quiet strength may have matched his inner state - serene but ready to rebuild. Like the cliffs themselves, Zhao was enduring the test of time and weathering his own storm.

Macau

Not all of Zhao's travels were tranquil. He spent time in the glamorous city of Macau, known for its nightlife and casinos. A post shows him clutching a Burberry coat in front of the replica Eiffel Tower, soaking in the city's extravagant charm.

Yangshuo mountains

Seeking solitude, Zhao later traveled to Yangshuo. He uploaded a dimly lit photo of himself at twilight, standing under the area's dramatic peaks with a luxurious pool in view.

This location offered Zhao a retreat from the chaos of his suspension - somewhere to pause, reflect, and rebuild his mindset.

Xining lakes

Zhao also shared images from Xining, in the province Qinghai, near China's northern border with Mongolia, known for its scenic lakes and open landscapes. His pictures convey serenity - mirror-like waters under a wide sky.

These peaceful scenes may have symbolised Zhao's own internal reflections as he reckoned with his past actions and envisioned a way forward.

Dubai

Just prior to his suspension, Zhao enjoyed the high life in Dubai. An Instagram post captures him at the wheel of a bright green supercar, set against the iconic Burj Al Arab.

The image radiates confidence and style, reflecting Zhao's taste for the finer things - even on the edge of a crisis.

Dog

A constant in Zhao's life during this turbulent time was his Pom-Shi dog. His social media is dotted with charming pictures of the pup at rest or accompanying him on various trips.

These photos provide insight into Zhao's emotional world - highlighting comfort and companionship amid upheaval.

Snooker practice

Zhao kept snooker close to his heart throughout the ban. His posts include shots of himself practicing, focused and driven. Even while barred from competing, Zhao was sharpening his skills - laying the groundwork for a dramatic return to the top.

Hendry support

Stephen Hendry played an encouraging role throughout Zhao's exile. The seven-time champion regularly interacted with Zhao's posts. When Zhao finally announced his comeback in October 2024, Hendry left a short but powerful comment: "He's back."

This backing from a legend no doubt lifted Zhao's spirits and set the tone for a fairytale comeback in 2025.