Ronnie O’Sullivan Wins Inaugural World Masters of Snooker in Saudi Arabia

Ronnie O'Sullivan emerged victorious in the first-ever World Masters of Snooker event held in Saudi Arabia, defeating Luca Brecel in a thrilling final. The competition, which took place in Riyadh, saw the Rocket clinch the title with a commanding 5-2 victory over the reigning world champion.

Earlier in the tournament, O’Sullivan had outplayed Judd Trump to secure his spot in the final showdown against Brecel. The win not only earned O’Sullivan the prestigious title but also a substantial cash prize of £250,000.

One of the highlights of the tournament was the elusive golden ball, which promised a hefty £400,000 reward if potted at the end of a maximum break. Despite some close attempts from players like John Higgins in earlier rounds, the golden ball remained untouched throughout the competition.

Following the conclusion of the event, organizers announced exciting developments for next year’s competition. The prize money for potting the golden ball will be doubled to an impressive £800,000, making it an even more enticing challenge for players.

Turki Alalshikh, a Saudi advisor, revealed plans for a snooker academy in Saudi Arabia named after the iconic Ronnie O’Sullivan. This initiative aims to further promote the sport and nurture young talent in the region.

In the final, Brecel showcased glimpses of his championship form but ultimately struggled to match O’Sullivan’s prowess on the table. The Belgian Bullet fought hard, taking a brief lead, but O’Sullivan’s experience and skill proved too much to overcome.

O’Sullivan expressed his delight at the tournament’s success, praising the venue, the crowd, and the overall atmosphere in Riyadh. He commended the hospitality and cultural experience, expressing a desire for future editions of the competition in the Middle East.

Looking ahead, O’Sullivan pledged to return next year and set his sights on potting the elusive golden ball. He emphasized the importance of growing the sport and acknowledged the potential impact of events like the World Masters of Snooker on the global snooker scene.