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.

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.

Each frame will begin with the Gold Ball on the baulk cushion level with the brown spot.

If a player accidentally pots the Gold Ball early in the frame or hits it before hitting the object ball, it’s a four-point foul.

The Gold Ball stays on the table as long as it’s possible for a player to make a 147.

If a maximum is no longer possible, the Gold Ball is removed from the table by the referee until the next frame.

If a player makes a 147 he will then have the chance to pot the Gold Ball to score an extra 20 points and complete a unique break of 167.
The first player to do this will win $500,000 (£400,000).

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.