China’s Chang Bingyu has helped set a new milestone in professional snooker after compiling a 147 maximum break during UK Championship qualifying — the 16th of the season, marking a historic all-time record with more than half the campaign still to play.
The 23-year-old, who turned professional in 2019, produced the first maximum of his career in the third round of qualifying against former UK champion Stephen Maguire. The flawless clearance put Chang 4–3 ahead, showcasing the silky cue action that once made him one of snooker’s brightest prospects.
But despite the achievement, the match ultimately slipped away from him. Maguire battled back to take a tight contest 6–5, ending Chang’s hopes of progressing in this year’s tournament.
A Maximum Break With Added Meaning
A 147 — consisting of all 15 reds with blacks, followed by the six colours — is snooker’s most iconic achievement. For Chang, the moment carries extra significance.
He only returned to professional action earlier this year after serving a two-year suspension for involvement in a high-profile match-fixing scandal that affected several Chinese players. His maximum break is the strongest indication yet that he is rebuilding both form and reputation.
Record-Breaking Season Continues
Chang’s 147 sets a new single-season record of 16 maximum breaks, surpassing the previous best of 15, set only last season (2024–25). The tally for this current campaign already includes:
- Liam Pullen, who equalled the old record earlier in UK Championship qualifying
- Ronnie O’Sullivan, Thepchaiya Un-Nooh, and Aaron Hill, each with two maximums this season
With more than six months remaining on the snooker calendar, analysts expect the total to rise significantly.
Across the sport’s history, Chang’s effort becomes the 233rd official maximum break ever recorded.
Snooker’s Surge in High-Quality Break Building
The explosion in 147s has been linked to multiple factors:
- Faster, more attacking playing styles
- Improved table conditions
- Rising global depth of talent
- Younger players showing fewer inhibitions in open play
Chang’s maximum only strengthens the sense that the modern game is entering its most prolific era in terms of high-break artistry.
What Comes Next for Chang?
Although eliminated from UK Championship qualifying, Chang’s landmark achievement serves as a reminder of the potential he showcased as a teenager.
His challenge now is finding consistency — and proving that he can again compete regularly at ranking-event level following his return to the tour.
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