Wins his second ranking title within the space of eight weeks at the German Masters in Berlin. Crushes Yan Bingtao 9-0 in the final – only the third whitewash in a two-session ranking event final in snooker history.

Reaches the quarter-finals of the World Grand Prix, beating John Higgins in the process. Wins his first ranking title in style at the UK Championship, knocking out the likes of John Higgins and Barry Hawkins to reach the final before a 10-5 victory over Luca Brecel. Becomes the fourth player from mainland China to win a ranking title, joining Ding Junhui, Liang Wenbo and Yan Bingtao.

Makes quarter-finals of the German Masters in Berlin and the World Grand Prix. Climbs into the world’s top 32.

Reaches the quarter-finals of the Welsh Open. Qualifies for the final stages of the World Championship for the first time, losing 10-7 to Mark Selby on his Crucible debut. Climbs into the world’s top 64.

Reaches the semi-finals of a ranking event for the first time at the China Championship, beating the likes of Mark Williams and Barry Hawkins before losing to Mark Selby.

Beats John Higgins on his way to the last 16 of the German Masters.

Runner-up at the World Amateur Championship, which earns him a place on the tour.