What is the Gold Ball at the World Masters of Snooker and how much is it worth?
SAUDI ARABIA’S World Masters of Snooker has sparked controversy within the sport – with its new ‘gold ball’ getting plenty of people talking.
Snooker legend Ronnie O’Sullivan, English icon Judd Trump and 2023 world champion Luca Brecel are just a few of the names that will participate in the Riyadh tournament during the month of March.
GettyRonnie O’Sullivan will headline the Saudi exhibition that features a ‘golden’ ball[/caption]
But to further raise the profile of the competition, organisers have announced that a 23rd ‘golden ball’ will be available for players to reach in a match.
And it has left fans wondering what it takes to get the extra ball and how much it will be worth.
What is snooker’s ‘gold ball’ and how much is it worth?
The Riyadh Season World Masters of Snooker organisers have confirmed that a 23rd ball will be available for players who are on a 147 maximum break.
It will be worth a staggering 20 points which will take that specific player’s score up to 167 – which would set a world record.
The ball can only be potted once all other balls have been successfully cleared from the table.
However, the details of whether the ball will be available on the table throughout the frame, or if it will be introduced only after a maximum 147 break has been completed are yet to be revealed.
SunSport has been told by one player that they believe the ball will be on the table throughout the game and placed near the baulk cushion – which would make it “tough” to make a 167.
Players have also been unable to practice with the ball and are expected to be able to do so when they arrive in Saudi Arabia this weekend.
What has been said?
Snooker fans have been angered with the tweak of the traditional format but Ronnie O’Sullivan was more concerned about the prize money for pulling off this unique 167 break.
The Rocket said: “What’s the prize for a 167? Have they announced it? I’m sure that it will be a hefty prize.
“Listen, the Saudis can just do what they like. They are a powerful outfit.
“Every other sport seems to be doing stuff in Saudi, so it will be great to go out there.”
When is the Riyadh Season World Masters of Snooker?
The controversial tournament is set to get underway on Monday, March 4.
And the Riyadh Season World Masters of Snooker will conclude on Wednesday, March 6.
Eurosport will have full coverage in the UK, although session times have yet to be confirmed.
Boulevard Arena in the capital of Riyadh is the chosen venue for this event and it can host approximately 26,000 fans.
The total prize pot for the tournament stands at $1million (approx £790k), although the breakdown is also yet to be announced.
