A landmark evening at the Crucible unfolded with grace, grit, and groundbreaking achievements that snooker fans will talk about for years.
After more than a year away from social media, top referee Desislava Bozhilova made a heartfelt return to share her thoughts on one of the most unforgettable nights in the sport. The 32-year-old Bulgarian official, who last posted during a 2023 birthday trip, took to X to celebrate the 2025 World Snooker Championship final she officiated so brilliantly.
“I loved every second of it. It was a pleasure to be involved in a game like that,” she wrote, alongside a special trophy from the Bulgarian Snooker Federation marking her impressive career.
Bozhilova’s role in the 18-12 showdown between Zhao Xintong and Mark Williams wasn’t just memorable — it was history-making. She became the first woman ever to referee the finals of all three Triple Crown events: the Masters, UK Championship, and now the World Championship. Only the legendary Michaela Tabb had previously handled a World final, making Bozhilova’s achievement a true glass-ceiling moment for the game.
The player she watched from the best seat in the house delivered a story straight out of a dream. At 28, Zhao Xintong completed an incredible 29-day journey that started in the qualifiers and ended with him hoisting the famous trophy.
As the first amateur and the first Asian player to claim the World Snooker Championship title, Zhao stunned the elite field with powerful performances, including a standout win over Ronnie O’Sullivan. His marathon effort across 111 frames earned him the £500,000 top prize and a rocket ride up to 11th in the world rankings as he prepares to rejoin the professional tour full-time next season.
Even in victory, respect flowed both ways. Bozhilova paid warm tribute to runner-up Mark Williams, the 50-year-old Welsh veteran whose fifth World final showcased his timeless skill and passion for the game.
What a night of firsts and farewells to doubt — proof that snooker still delivers magic when talent, determination, and quiet excellence meet under the bright lights of the Crucible. Fans everywhere are still buzzing from this legendary chapter.