Saudi Arabia snooker masters joins elite ranks with record prize money

In a groundbreaking move, Saudi Arabia is set to host snooker’s ‘fourth major’ tournament. This event introduces a massive prize pot, positioning Riyadh as a new hub for snooker excellence. Scheduled for August, the Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters marks a significant expansion for the sport. It boasts a £2 million prize, trailing only the World Championship in terms of winnings. The World Snooker Tour, alongside the Saudi Arabian Billiard & Snooker Federation and the Ministry of Sport, unveiled this initiative on Tuesday.

The Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters emerges as a key addition to the Triple Crown events. It offers over £2 million in prizes, making it the second richest event on the World Snooker Tour’s 2024 calendar. This competition will feature all 128 tour players, plus six local wild cards from the Saudi Arabian Billiard & Snooker Federation. The event is set to run from August 31 to September 7, with a 10-year agreement in place.

HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal, the Saudi Minister of Sport, expressed enthusiasm for this development. He highlighted Saudi Arabia’s growing status as a versatile sports venue. The addition of a world-class snooker event aligns with the country’s broader ambitions. Eddie Hearn, chairman of Matchroom Sport, also praised Saudi Arabia’s efforts in sports growth. He noted the country’s successful hosting of premier sporting events, emphasizing the Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters’ potential to attract global fans and enrich the sport.

This strategic move signals a new era for snooker, with Riyadh becoming a focal point for players and fans alike. The Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters not only enhances the sport’s global presence but also promises to be a thrilling competition for the next decade.