Wu Yize's journey to becoming China's second world snooker champion is a story of family sacrifice, resilience, and raw talent. At just 22 years old, he is the second-youngest winner of the World Snooker Championship—a title he claimed by defeating Shaun Murphy 18-17 in a gripping final at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield.

But the road to glory was anything but easy. Wu relocated from his hometown of Lanzhou to the UK at age 16, accompanied by his father, while his mother's health was a constant concern. "My mum wasn't in very good health condition for a long time," Wu shared. "During that time we were in Sheffield, she has been in hospital a lot. She is forever a source of strength to me."

He added: "She sacrificed everything for me. At that time she told me 'don't come back home, I can manage everything.' It was the second year I was playing in the UK. My ranking was very low, so it was a crucial time for me to achieve some good results and keep my professional status. She means everything to me."

Now feeling much better, his mother visited him in the UK for the second time—a moment Wu treasures. "In the future I will take her more to be by my side," he said.

The sacrifices extended beyond health. Wu and his father shared a bed in a windowless flat in Sheffield, a humble start for a player who would go on to captivate the snooker world. His attacking style and individuality stood out in a sport known for its formal attire and disciplined approach. Legends like Ronnie O'Sullivan and Murphy himself tipped him as a future world champion earlier this season.

Jason Ferguson, chairman of the sport's governing body, sees Wu as a transformative figure. "This boy is just outstanding. I've known Wu for a number of years, known his father for many years and seen the struggles and the tough battles to get to this stage," Ferguson said. "You cannot believe what it means to that family to actually be in that arena holding that trophy. It's quite an incredible moment. We are seeing a changing of the tide."

Wu's triumph marks the second consecutive year a Chinese player has won the world title, following Zhao Xintong's historic victory. For Wu, it's not just a championship—it's a testament to the family who believed in him every step of the way.