Chang Bingyu earned £172,000 from the World Championship qualifying rounds, even though he was banned for match-fixing. This remarkable sum came despite not participating in the main tournament held at the Crucible Theatre.
During the qualifiers, Chang advanced to the third stage but lost 10-8 to Luca Brecel. However, his performance was highlighted by an impressive 147 maximum break, a feat that showcases his exceptional skill in snooker.
The financial breakdown of Chang’s earnings reveals more than just his qualifying performance. He received a £147,000 bonus for achieving two maximum breaks during the season’s Triple Crown events and an additional £15,000 for having the highest break at the World Championship.
This situation is striking given Chang’s recent history. He faced a 20-month ban due to a match-fixing scandal that implicated ten Chinese players and resulted in lifetime bans for Liang Wenbo and Li Hang. Chang admitted to fixing a match at the 2022 British Open under pressure at just 20 years old.
Chang’s suspension expired in December 2024, after which he quickly returned to form by winning the Asia-Pacific Championship and becoming runner-up in the 2025 Scottish Open. This rapid comeback has sparked discussions among fans and analysts alike.
Shaun Murphy praised Chang’s recent performances, stating, “That was as good as anything I’ve ever witnessed in my 35 years playing snooker.” Such high praise raises questions: Can a player with a controversial past fully regain their standing in the sport?
The broader implications of Chang’s earnings and accolades amid his ban continue to unfold. Observers are keenly watching how this controversy will affect his future participation in professional snooker.
As Chang navigates this complex landscape of success and scrutiny, one thing is clear: his talent remains undeniable.