Despite losing in the world snooker finals -- Ding's performance will no doubt help increase the popularity of the sport in this country -- and fans are proud of his success.

SHEFFIELD, May 3, 2016 (Xinhua) -- Ding Junhui of China acknowledges his supporters during the awarding ceremony after the final with Mark Selby of England at the World Snooker Championship 2016 at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, England on May 2, 2016. (Xinhua/Han Yan)

"I think he played very well. He is the first Chinese and Asian to be in the finals of the World Snooker Championship. That is a major step. I believe that he will have lots of chances in the future to win the title," said a Chinese fan.

"No regrets. I played snooker before, and I do understand the mood when competing. He had an excellent performance," said another Chinese fan.