Snooker fans all say same thing after Ronnie O'Sullivan whitewashed by Zhao Xintong

fans have rushed to laud after the Chinese star produced one of the most memorable sessions of play in World Championship history. The 28-year-old arrived at the Crucible locked at 4-4 in his semi-final with , with the stage set for a tight affair.

However, instead, Xintong produced two hours of complete dominance. He hit two centuries en route to taking all eight morning frames . While 'The Rocket' was undoubtedly out of sorts, his opponent's seamless potting and precise safety play meant any error from the seven-time world champion was ruthlessly punished.

As the morning unfolded, viewers piled onto social media to hail Xintong's display. Despite still having to win five more frames in this best-of-17 affair, he's even being backed to go all the way and become the first player from his country to win the world title.

"Xintong is gonna clear up here, and I don't just mean this match or tournament," said @Sophs088. "Wow." @Gunner88Th37078 added: "Zhao Xintong will be crowned world champion."

Many suggested the session was evidence that Xintong, who only returned to the sport last September after a 20-month ban for his part in a match-fixing probe, was displacing O'Sullivan as an elite force. @Caoimhincc argued: "Xintong is doing a 'Ronnie' on Ronnie. Sensational snooker."

@Danza09 posted: "8-0 session for Zhao Xintong over Ronnie O'Sullivan!!! The passing of the torch has well and truly taken place!! WOW!" @JessCashman10 argued: "If Ronnie had put in that session, we'd all be waxing lyrical about him."

It wasn't just viewers praising the Chinese star, with BBC commentator John Virgo saying on air: "It's been absolutely wonderful from Zhao Xintong. Take a bow, Zhao." John Parrott added 'The Cyclone' had been "absolutely fabulous."

Xintong compiled breaks of 112 and 115 as well as five half-centuries to blow O'Sullivan away. His performance earned him a standing ovation from the crowd as he left the venue, with the contest to resume at 7pm tonight.