Chang Bingyu: The Man Who Earned £172,000 Without Playing at the Crucible
For most players, failing to qualify for the World Snooker Championship means an empty wallet and barely a mention. But not for Chang Bingyu. The 23-year-old from China pocketed a jaw-dropping £172,000, out-earning plenty of players who spent weeks under the arena lights, all without stepping foot on the main stage at the Crucible Theatre.
The twist? Chang banked every pound from the sidelines during the final between Wu Yize and Shaun Murphy. His earnings came from a combination of bonuses: £147,000 for achieving two maximum 147 breaks in qualifying events, £10,000 for his 147 during World Championship qualifying, and £15,000 for the tournament's highest break. Despite losing his qualifying match to Luca Brecel (10-8), Chang's financial windfall surpassed many who reached the later rounds.
Who Is Chang Bingyu?
Chang Bingyu grew up in Qinghai, China, and turned professional in 2019. He quickly stood out for his fearless, high-speed style and exceptional break-building ability, capable of racking up big scores in a hurry. However, his career crashed down in late 2022 when his name became entangled in snooker's worst-ever match-fixing scandal. The World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association accused several Chinese players of spot-fixing, leading to Chang's suspension. Unlike others who were expelled permanently, Chang received a 20-month ban, described as young, easily influenced, and possibly coerced. By late 2024, his ban ended, and he wasted no time making headlines.
Resurgence and Rising Star
Since returning, Chang's rise has been nothing short of remarkable. He won the Asia-Pacific Championship, regained his tour card, and reached the final of the 2025 Scottish Open. At the Welsh Open this year, he dismantled Shaun Murphy without missing a single pot, with Murphy calling it one of the best displays he had seen in years. The focus has shifted from the scandal to his undeniable talent, establishing him as one of snooker's new faces.
How Did He Earn £172,000 Without Playing?
During the World Championship qualifiers in Sheffield, Chang achieved a 147 maximum break against Luca Brecel. This perfect game, where every red is followed by a black before clearing the colors, is snooker's rarest feat. Remarkably, Chang had already made a 147 earlier in the same season during UK Championship qualifiers, unlocking a £147,000 bonus under World Snooker Tour rules for two maximums in qualifying or big events. Added to that were £10,000 for his 147 during World Championship qualifying and £15,000 for the tournament's highest break, totaling £172,000. Despite losing his match, he earned more than many who reached the Crucible.
What's Next for Chang Bingyu?
Chinese snooker is booming, and Chang's payday is the latest sign. Days after his windfall, Wu Yize beat Shaun Murphy in a heart-stopping World Championship final, bringing the trophy to China. With stars like Wu, Chang's return, and Zhao Xintong's earlier success, China is transforming a sport once dominated by Britain. At just 23, Chang has ample time to refine his game. His ranking is climbing fast, and if he continues scoring like this, he might soon lift Triple Crown trophies. However, the old scandal will likely follow him, as every mention of his name revives the controversy.
