Jeddah is once again preparing to welcome the world's leading pool players as defending champion Fedor Gorst of Russia returns to defend his title at the 2025 World Pool Championship. The event, the richest in nine-ball history, takes place in Saudi Arabia for the second consecutive year from 21 to 26 July at Jeddah's Green Halls. It is jointly organized by the Saudi Billiards and Snooker Federation and Matchroom under the Ministry of Sport.
Tickets go on sale on 22 June. Fans around the world can look forward to thrilling competition featuring 128 elite players competing in a double-elimination format for a record US$1 million prize fund, including US$250,000 for the winner.
Gorst enters the tournament as world number one after an outstanding 2024 season in which he won the championship, becoming the youngest player to win two world titles in the discipline following his first in 2019. He now hopes to add a third title and strengthen his place among the sport's legends.
Gorst said: “Returning to Jeddah to defend my title is a wonderful opportunity. The World Championship in Saudi Arabia has become one of the highlights of the calendar, and I eagerly look forward to competing amid excellent organization and passionate fans. The prize money and level of competition here are unmatched.” The championship provides an exceptional stage for skill, with many of pool's brightest names taking part.
Reflecting the Ministry of Sport's commitment to developing specialist sports, 16 wildcards will be awarded to players from Saudi Arabia and the region, giving them a historic opportunity to compete with global professionals. The Saudi Junior Championship also returns alongside the world event, nurturing emerging talent as part of Saudi Vision 2030's ambition to empower young people, develop a new generation of athletes, and establish the Kingdom as a global sporting center.
Saudi Billiards and Snooker Federation President Naif Al-Jawini said: “We are witnessing a comprehensive revival of billiards and snooker, as with other sports in the Kingdom. The Ministry of Sport's strong support reflects our deep belief in our young people's abilities. Hosting these events is only the beginning of a promising future for this game and other sports.” Matchroom CEO Emily Frazer added: “The 2025 World Pool Championship will be an exceptional event in every respect.
We are delighted to continue our partnership with the Saudi Ministry of Sport and the Saudi Billiards and Snooker Federation. The sport's rapid growth in the region reflects the Kingdom's ambitious vision and passion for sport. Together, we aim to develop this event and inspire the next generation of players worldwide.” More than 50 hours of live television coverage and 100 hours of digital streaming will allow fans to follow every moment from anywhere in the world.
