Zhao Xintong stands on the brink of snooker history as he leads Mark Williams 11-6 in the World Championship final at the Crucible.
The Chinese star, nicknamed the 'Chinese Cyclone', needs just seven more frames to become his country's first world champion.
The 28-year-old has handled the pressure magnificently on the sport's grandest stage, dominating the first day of the final against the three-time champion Williams.
Zhao's commanding performance has put him in pole position to make history in Sheffield.
Zhao Xintong could become the first Chinese player to win the World Snooker Championship
Reuters
If successful, he would become the first qualifier to lift the trophy since Shaun Murphy's triumph 20 years ago.
The former UK champion was ranked world No.9 when he received a 20-month ban for betting breaches two years ago.
Since returning to the sport, Zhao has been in sensational form, most recently dispatching Ronnie O'Sullivan with a session to spare.
His redemption story now stands just seven frames from its perfect conclusion.
The Chinese cueman took full advantage of Williams' misfiring start, racing to a commanding 7-1 lead in the early stages.
Zhao showcased his exceptional potting ability with impressive breaks of 77, 100, 57, 104 and 83.
His long-to-mid-range potting accuracy has been described as "barely believable" in its ferocity.
Williams, despite his renowned big-match temperament, has struggled to contain Zhao's explosive talent.
The left-handed Zhao, who has drawn comparisons to Jimmy White for his naturally fast style, has capitalised ruthlessly on the chances presented to him.
Mark Williams is gunning to become the oldest player to ever win the World Snooker Championship, having beaten Judd Trump in the semi-final
Reuters
The age gap between the two finalists is remarkable, with 31 years separating them - the largest ever in a world final.
Williams' oldest son Connor is just seven years younger than Zhao, who was merely three years old when the Welshman first claimed the trophy in 2000.
The 49-year-old Williams has drawn inspiration from Welsh snooker legends, saying: "Maybe I've got Griffiths on one shoulder and Ray on the other shoulder willing me on."
He added: "They're the reason why most of us, young Welsh people, are playing snooker."
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Zhao Xintong has put himself in control of the World Snooker Championship final
Reuters
Zhao's potential victory would mark a watershed moment for Chinese snooker, a sport that has grown tremendously in popularity across Asia.
His journey from suspension to the cusp of world championship glory represents one of snooker's most compelling redemption tales.
The final day's play promises high drama as Williams, an indisputable great of the game, attempts to overturn the deficit.
Should Zhao maintain his composure, he will etch his name in the sport's history books as China's first world champion.
