The 2025 Optics Valley of China World Snooker Wuhan Open concluded with an exhilarating finale on Aug 30 at the Optics Valley Gymnasium of Huazhong University of Science and Technology. Chinese snooker star Xiao Guodong triumphed over British contender Gary Wilson, securing his second career ranking title.

Xiao Guodong secures his second career ranking title at 2025 World Snooker Wuhan Open. [Photo/WeChat account of Optics Valley of China]

The final was a tense best-of-19 frames match, split into two sessions. Xiao took an early lead, winning the first two frames, but Wilson fought back, leaving Xiao with a narrow 5-4 advantage by the end of the first session. In the second session, Wilson surged ahead to an 8-6 lead. However, Xiao demonstrated remarkable resilience, eventually clinching the championship with a 10-9 victory.

Xiao won his first title at the 2024 World Snooker Wuhan Open. While speaking about his successful title defense this year, he said, "I hope to inspire all Chinese players to believe in their potential and showcase their fighting spirit."

Following his victory, Xiao's world ranking soared from 14th to 8th, marking his debut in the top ten. Currently, six Chinese players rank among the world's top 20.

The seven-day event attracted nearly 15,000 spectators, a 30 percent increase from last year, highlighting the growing popularity of snooker in China.