The 2005 China Open final, which Ding Junhui won by defeating Stephen Hendry, drew a record-breaking television audience of 110 million viewers in China. This victory served as a turning point, marking the emergence of a player who would go on to achieve fifteen major ranking titles and become the first Asian world number one.
Early Development in China
Born in Yixing on 1 April 1987, Ding began playing snooker at age nine. His parents prioritized his training, eventually selling their grocery business and family home to facilitate his move to Dongguan for intensive practice. By age 11, he withdrew from formal schooling to dedicate eight hours daily to the sport. His early potential manifested in 2002 when he won both the Asian Under-21 Championship and the Asian Championship.
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Ding turned professional in September 2003 at age 16 after receiving a concession from the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association. His ascent was rapid; in 2005, he became the first non-British or Irish winner of the UK Championship. By 2014, he achieved the world number one ranking, the first Asian player to reach this position. His record includes 700 century breaks, among which are seven maximum breaks.
Tournament Achievements
Throughout his career, Ding secured three UK Championship titles, winning in 2005, 2009, and 2019. He reached the final of the Masters twice, winning the tournament in 2011. In 2016, he achieved another milestone as the first Asian player to reach the final of the World Championship. Beyond his tournament success, he maintains a presence in the sport through the Ding Junhui Snooker Academy, which he owns in Sheffield, England.
Fast facts
- Born: 1 April 1987, Yixing
- Sport: Snooker
- World number one: Achieved 2014
- UK Championship wins: 2005, 2009, 2019
- Maximum breaks: 7
- Education: Shanghai Jiao Tong University
- Residence: Sheffield, England
Questions readers ask
Was Ding Junhui the first Asian world number one in snooker?
Yes, he became the first Asian world number one in 2014.
How many UK Championships has he won?
He has won three UK Championships, specifically in 2005, 2009, and 2019.
