David Hendon and Dominic Dale Lead TNT Sports Coverage of Zhao Xintong vs Gary Wilson at 2026 World Open

The 2026 World Open at Yushan Sport Centre in China continues with compelling last 16 action, as Zhao Xintong, the reigning World Champion, faces Gary Wilson in a match that will be broadcast across the UK and Ireland on TNT Sports 3 HD and Discovery+. The match forms part of Thursday's Last 16 lineup at the prestigious ranking event, which runs from 16 to 22 March 2026.

Commentary for this fixture comes from David Hendon, one of snooker's most respected voices, alongside co-commentator Dominic Dale. Hendon brings decades of experience to the microphone, having established himself as a trusted presence in snooker broadcasting through his insightful analysis and commanding delivery. His partnership with Dale, a former professional player with intimate knowledge of the game's tactical nuances, provides viewers with both authoritative observation and practical insight into the strategies unfolding on the baize.

The tournament, officially the Likang Roasted Eel – Junma Cup World Open, represents the 11th edition since the event was rebranded as the World Open in 2010 and serves as the 16th ranking event of the 2025–26 snooker season. TNT Sports and Discovery+ hold broadcast rights across the United Kingdom and Ireland, bringing comprehensive coverage to British and Irish audiences. The partnership ensures that fans can follow the action across multiple platforms, whether through traditional television or streaming services.

Zhao Xintong arrives at this Last 16 encounter as the defending World Open champion from the previous edition, bringing significant tournament pedigree to the contest. His progression through the earlier rounds demonstrates his continued form during the season. Gary Wilson, meanwhile, represents the competitive depth of the professional tour, as players from across the rankings compete in the knockout format for ranking points and a share of the £825,000 total prize fund. The winner of this match will advance toward the quarter-finals, with the overall tournament champion receiving £175,000.

The World Open's status as a ranking event ensures that every match carries significance for player rankings and seasonal positioning. With qualifiers having taken place in February at the Barnsley Metrodome in Barnsley, England, the main tournament in Yushan has brought together elite professionals from around the globe, including world number one Judd Trump, seven-time World Champion Ronnie O'Sullivan, and defending World Open champion John Higgins. The diverse field showcases snooker's global reach, with players from Europe, Asia, and beyond competing at the sport's highest level.

For viewers in mainland Europe, Eurosport provides parallel coverage, whilst local channels in Asia and Africa offer regional broadcasts, and WST Play extends access to all other territories worldwide. The comprehensive broadcasting arrangements reflect the tournament's importance within the professional snooker calendar and its appeal to fans across multiple continents. TNT Sports delivers detailed scheduling and results coverage for the World Open, allowing fans to track the tournament's progression throughout the week.

The Yushan Sport Centre provides a modern venue for this prestigious competition, continuing snooker's significant presence in Chinese professional sport. The tournament's location in Jiangxi Province underscores snooker's growing international footprint and the sport's expansion beyond its traditional heartland. As the competition reaches its business end with Last 16 matches, the quality of play intensifies, offering viewers compelling encounters between established stars and rising talents competing for ranking points and tournament success.

Article generated: 19 March 2026, 11:41 GMT