Saudi Arabia Impresses the World with Snooker Masters Organization as Stars Praise Professional Standards and Champion Development Plans

The Snooker Masters organizing committee held its press conference this evening at the Green Hall in Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Sports City, Jeddah. Attendees included Federation President Naif Al-Jawini, World Snooker Tour Chairman Steve Dawson and Saudi referee Najla Al-Nuaimi, alongside extensive local and international media and leading players.

Al-Jawini said the championship reflects the sport's significant development in the Kingdom and offers an important opportunity for snooker fans: “We are still at the beginning. In the coming years, we will achieve many advances in developing players and referees. We are delighted to welcome the world's elite players to this prestigious event.”

Saudi referee Najla Al-Nuaimi said: “I am proud to represent Saudi women in refereeing and hope to see more Saudi women in this field. The tournament gives me valuable experience working alongside the world's best referees.”

World Snooker Tour Chairman Steve Dawson praised the Kingdom's organization and thanked the Ministry of Sport and the federation: “Saudi Arabia's professional organization matches the world's largest tournaments. The ten-year hosting agreement will help develop the game and build a base of talented players and referees capable of competing internationally.”

The organizing committee arranged several hours of mixed-zone media interviews featuring some of the world's top ten players. They included defending champion Judd Trump and Ronnie O'Sullivan of England, the modern-era record holder with seven world titles. England's Mark Selby and Scotland's John Higgins, both four-time world champions, also attended, alongside three-time champion Mark Williams of Wales, England's top-ten player Kyren Wilson, and other international stars.

Ronnie O'Sullivan said: “I love being at the Snooker Masters and enjoying its special atmosphere. Jeddah's organization reflects the scale and professionalism of the event. Saudi Arabia has provided a wonderful example of hosting world championships; from the moment you arrive, you feel the event's grandeur and the quality of the experience.”

Defending champion Judd Trump said: “The tournament has been successful from its first edition. Attendance and interest were clear from the beginning, leaving us with many good memories. I hope to continue succeeding here and that the long-term hosting agreement encourages new generations to develop. It would be wonderful to face a Saudi player in the future, perhaps even see one become world champion and make everyone proud.”

Kyren Wilson said: “This is my first visit to this beautiful city. The first edition was held in one of the best venues I have played in, and this year's organization looks excellent too. The people are friendly and the food is delicious. I will tell people at home about this wonderful experience. I admire Saudi Arabia's plan to host major tournaments, as China did when developing world champions. I am confident Saudi Arabia is following the same path toward producing a new champion.”

The round of 32 takes place tomorrow, Monday. England's defending champion Judd Trump faces compatriot Oliver Lines, while snooker legend and world champion Ronnie O'Sullivan makes his first appearance amid great anticipation.

This round promises exciting matches between leading stars and an enthusiastic atmosphere, further establishing the championship as a major event on the world snooker calendar.