Tour Championship Snooker: Expert Analysis, Preview, and Top Betting Tips

Richard Mann returns with a fresh preview ahead of the season-ending event. He follows last week’s shock 66/1 winner, James Cooper, as the Tour Championship opens on Monday.

Zhao Xintong: form and momentum

Zhao Xintong arrives as the reigning world champion and clear favourite. He claimed the Crucible crown last spring and now carries heightened expectations.

The 28-year-old won the 2021 UK Championship in York. He then faced betting and match-fixing allegations. Zhao was absent for around 20 months before returning to the tour.

Since his return, Zhao has rebuilt rapidly. He won the Riyadh Season Championship in November. He beat Zhang Anda 10-6 to lift the World Grand Prix.

Zhao added the Players Championship, recovering from 7-6 down to defeat John Higgins. He also overcame Shaun Murphy and Mark Allen that week.

He had an early exit at the World Open after a busy spell. That may leave him fresher for this key tournament in Manchester.

Draw and likely route

As one of four seeded players, Zhao begins at the quarter-final stage. His first opponent will be either Wu Yize or Chris Wakelin.

A semi-final could pit him against Mark Williams, John Higgins, or Mark Selby. On recent form, Zhao looks hard to beat over multiple sessions.

Bookmakers list him around 7/2. Filmogaz.com rates him a strong contender to reach the latter stages.

Challengers to watch

Judd Trump could face Mark Allen in the opening round. Allen holds a favourable recent record against Trump.

Neil Robertson is a proven force at this event. He won the title in both 2021 and 2022.

Robertson completed the Players Championship and Tour Championship double in 2022. Shaun Murphy achieved that same double the following year.

John Higgins is the defending champion this week. He reached the Players semis last year before winning this tournament.

Mark Selby captured the Champion of Champions and the UK Championship earlier in the campaign. He has, however, struggled to find consistent form since Christmas.

Tour Championship Snooker: Expert Analysis, Preview, and Top Betting Tips

Filmogaz.com offers expert analysis and a concise preview ahead of the event. Below are short, practical betting pointers to consider.

• Back Zhao Xintong to progress deep in the event at around 7/2. His recent form supports that choice.
• Consider Mark Allen as a live danger to Judd Trump. Allen can disrupt Trump’s rhythm.
• Neil Robertson is a sensible pick over Shaun Murphy from the same half of the draw. Robertson has strong history here.

Responsible gambling

Recommended bets are intended for over-18s only. Stake only what you can afford to lose.

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Posted at 15:30 GMT on 27/03/26.