The Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters is set to kick off next week, with all the big names in the 144-player draw ready to compete. The draw and format for the event have been announced, offering fans a glimpse into what to expect from this new addition to the snooker calendar.

With 144 players set to take part, including 17 local wildcards, the tournament promises to be an exciting showcase of talent from around the world. Organizers WST have outlined how the tournament format will work, setting the stage for an action-packed competition.

Some intriguing opening-round matches have been revealed, with snooker legend Jimmy White set to take on Mohammed Shehab, and Ken Doherty facing off against Liam Davies. World No. 2 Judd Trump expressed his excitement for the event, comparing it to the prestigious World Championship.

Trump said, “Everyone is really excited to have an opportunity to play in an event which compares with the World Championship. It is nice for everyone to be playing for big money and you feel that all the work you’ve put in over the years pays off if you do well.”

Meanwhile, Ronnie O’Sullivan and the rest of the world’s top 16 players are set to begin their campaigns on September 3. O’Sullivan could potentially face Hossein Vafaei or Joe Perry in his opening match. The event, often dubbed the sport’s ‘fourth major,’ will run from August 30 to September 7 in Riyadh.

Fans can catch all the snooker action live on Eurosport and discovery+, with a stream available for those eager to follow the season closely. As the excitement builds for the Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters, players and fans alike are gearing up for a thrilling competition that promises to showcase the best of the sport on a global stage.