Snooker scores live: Judd Trump vs Zhao Xintong updates from £150k Tour Championship final.
The 2026 Tour Championship final between Judd Trump and Zhao Xintong is unfolding as a high-quality contest in Manchester, with a £150,000 winner’s prize on the line. Here’s a clear, up-to-date 500-word snapshot of the live action and key storylines.
The final began with both players showing strong scoring form, but it was Zhao Xintong who seized early control. At the mid-session interval, Zhao led 5–3 after a composed and clinical opening spell, capitalising on a few missed chances from Judd Trump.
Zhao’s confidence coming into the match has been sky-high. The reigning world champion produced one of the most dominant semi-final performances in recent memory, thrashing John Higgins 10–1 to book his place in the final. That display included superb long potting and heavy scoring, with some pundits even describing one shot as among the best ever seen in professional snooker.
Trump, however, arrived in the final in strong form of his own. The world number one defeated Neil Robertson 10–4 in the semi-finals, having earlier edged past Shaun Murphy in a tight contest. His route to the final underlined his consistency this season, but he faced a tough task against Zhao’s attacking fluency.
As the match progressed beyond the interval, Zhao maintained his advantage and edged closer to victory. Live scoring updates indicate that he extended his lead significantly, at one stage moving ahead 10–6 and then 10–8, putting him on the brink of lifting the trophy.
The final is being played over a best-of-19 frames format, requiring 10 frames to win. Zhao’s ability to compile quick, high breaks has been a decisive factor, while Trump has struggled at times to match that scoring power consistently across frames.
Tactically, the match has highlighted a contrast in styles. Trump, known for his aggressive shot-making and flair, has attempted to dictate play but has occasionally been punished for riskier decisions. Zhao, by contrast, has combined attacking brilliance with improved composure, often taking control of frames with single visits to the table.
Another key factor has been momentum. Zhao’s rapid scoring bursts have allowed him to string frames together, making it difficult for Trump to mount a sustained comeback. Even when Trump has closed the gap, Zhao has responded quickly to restore his lead.
This final also carries broader significance ahead of the World Championship. With Trump the world number one and Zhao the reigning world champion, many observers see this clash as a potential preview of a Crucible final later in the season.
As it stands, Zhao Xintong is in a commanding position and closing in on another major title in what has already been a remarkable season. Trump still has the experience and firepower to respond, but he needs a strong run of frames quickly to turn the match around.
Stay tuned—this final is not over yet, but Zhao is firmly in control heading into the closing stages.
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