Higgins comes close to snooker first with a golden ball in play, setting up a quarter-final against Ronnie O’Sullivan
In a moment that nearly entered the snooker history books, John Higgins was on the verge of achieving the first-ever 167 break during the Riyadh Season World Masters of Snooker in Saudi Arabia. This unique opportunity arose thanks to the introduction of a golden ball, a novel element that added an extra layer of excitement to the tournament’s inaugural edition. Higgins, a seasoned player with four world championships under his belt, managed to pot 15 reds and blacks in succession but faltered on his approach to the yellow, ending his historic run with a break of 120.
The golden ball, worth 20 points, is strategically placed on the top cushion and remains in play as long as a maximum break is possible. Once a player achieves a 147 break, they have the chance to extend it to a 167 by potting the golden ball. Unfortunately for Higgins, despite his impressive track record and nearly £10m in career earnings, the elusive yellow ball cut short what could have been a record-setting performance.
The tournament itself has drawn attention not only for its groundbreaking golden ball rule but also for its location in Saudi Arabia, a choice that has sparked discussions among players and fans alike. The Riyadh Season World Masters has succeeded in bringing together the world’s top snooker talents, including seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan, for what promises to be a showcase of high-level competition.
Higgins’ near-miss set the stage for a compelling quarter-final showdown against O’Sullivan, adding another chapter to their storied rivalry. Meanwhile, the event continues to feature thrilling matches, as demonstrated by England’s Ali Carter’s narrow victory over China’s Ding Junhui, securing his spot in the last eight.
As the Riyadh Season World Masters progresses, the introduction of the golden ball has undoubtedly added an intriguing twist to the proceedings, offering players the chance to etch their names into snooker lore with a groundbreaking 167 break. Despite Higgins’ missed opportunity, the tournament remains a highlight of the snooker calendar, blending tradition with innovation in the heart of Saudi Arabia
