The inaugural Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters 2025 is shaping up to be a blockbuster. 144 of the world’s best players, a dazzling £2 million prize pool, and a venue (Green Halls, Riyadh) ready to host a showdown of epic proportions from August 30 to September 7. But among the sea of talent heading to the Kingdom, a few names shine a little brighter. Honestly, it’s a bit like the Oscars of snooker – glamorous, competitive, and a little unpredictable. So, who are we watching? Who are the ones to beat? And what can we expect from this nine-day pot-a-thon? Let’s dive in.
Also read: Saudi Snooker Masters 2025: Dates, Players & Prize Money
The Format: Snooker’s Grandest Stage Yet
Now, before we get to the glamour and the gossip, a teeny bit of structure (just like life, really). The format is straight from the snooker big leagues, the World Championship-style knockout. If that means nothing to you, just know this: it’s fierce.
The event kicks off with 128 tour players and 16 wildcards, so 144 in total, battling it out over five rounds of rising intensity. It’s like musical chairs, only with waistcoats and a whole lot of chalk. By September 3, we’ll be down to the final 32. The grand finale on September 7? A best-of-19 match. That’s a long night of cue drama, snacks will be required.
The Top Seeds & Fan Favourites At Saudi Snooker Masters 2025
Okay, now on to the stars. And believe me, this line-up is snooker’s equivalent of Beyoncé, Taylor, and Adele all turning up to karaoke night.
Judd Trump (ENG) – World No.1 and The Man to Beat
He’s ranked No.1, plays like he’s got laser beams in his eyes, and is gliding into Riyadh with enough swagger to match his snooker stats. Judd Trump is basically the man to beat—and let’s face it, with a name like that, he was born to headline.
Why we’re watching: He makes the game look criminally easy and knows how to win under pressure without breaking a sweat.
Ronnie O’Sullivan (ENG) – The Rocket Returns
Even at 49, Ronnie O’Sullivan remains the sport’s most enigmatic and electric figure. A six-time World Champion, his presence alone guarantees packed stands and nail-biting frames.
Why we’re watching: If he’s in form (and in the mood), it’s like watching poetry. If he’s not, well, even that’s entertaining.
Kyren Wilson (ENG) – The Reigning World Champion
Fresh off his World Championship win, Kyren is marching into Riyadh like a man with something to prove (and a trophy to defend). He’s not flashy, but he’s fierce.
Why we’re watching: Confidence, consistency, and nerves of titanium. And he’s really hungry for a back-to-back win.
Mark Selby (ENG) – The Master of Mind Games
Known as “The Jester from Leicester,” Selby combines grit with precision. A four-time World Champion, he’ll be eager to impose his tactical mastery on this expansive field.
Why we’re watching: He’ll lull you into a false sense of security… and then snooker you into submission.
John Higgins (SCO) – The Wizard Still Weaves
Four-time World Champion and evergreen contender, Higgins is one of the sport’s most respected figures. His cue ball control remains textbook-perfect, and he’s always a threat in ranking events.
Why we’re watching: Experience counts, and his cue ball control is still so smooth it should come with a warning label.
Zhao Xintong (CHN) – China’s Ace in the Pack
One of the sport’s rising stars and seeded second, Zhao Xintong represents the new wave of global talent. Known for his fast, attacking style, he’s capable of taking down anyone on his day.
Why we’re watching: Flashy shots, fast frames, and just enough recklessness to make things interesting.
Mark Allen (NIR), Shaun Murphy, Barry Hawkins, Neil Robertson – The Steady Chasers
While the spotlight often falls on the Trumps and O’Sullivans, snooker’s middle seeds are just as deadly. Mark Allen, fresh from a string of solid performances, is poised for a deep run. Neil Robertson, the Australian powerhouse, has all the tools to dominate. Shaun Murphy’s break-building and Barry Hawkins’ tenacity could make them dark horses.
Why we’re watching: Any of these four could flip the script. Keep your eyes peeled.
Local Wildcards & Women Players: New Groundbreaking Additions At Saudi Snooker Masters 2025
Sixteen wildcard players, handpicked by the Saudi Arabian Billiards & Snooker Federation, will bring local flair and regional excitement to the tournament. Expect to see some surprise names making waves in early rounds.
And in a landmark move for inclusivity, leading women players will be part of the draw like :
- Reanne Evans (England),
- Mink Nutcharut (Thailand),
- Bai Yulu (China), and
- Baipat Siripaporn (Thailand)
Their inclusion aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 push to elevate women’s participation in sport – yet another sign that this tournament is rewriting the snooker playbook.
Whether it’s Ronnie gunning for legacy, Trump chasing dominance, or a wildcard pulling off a Cinderella run, the Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters 2025 promises thrills, drama, and unforgettable snooker. From August 30 to September 7, all eyes will be on Riyadh. Because when 144 contenders clash under the same roof, anything can happen, and probably will.
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