Ronnie O’Sullivan Sends Message To Promoters After Saudi Event Cancelled

Earlier this week, the World Snooker Tour confirmed that the Saudi Arabia Masters will not return from the 2026/27 season, despite an initial 10-year agreement with Saudi sporting authorities.

The lucrative event introduced just two years ago and billed as snooker’s unofficial “fourth major,” offered a £2.3 million prize fund and attracted a 128-player field. Its sudden removal represents a significant financial and structural blow to the tour.

A statement from the WST emailed to players read: “Following constructive discussions between The Saudi Billiard and Snooker Federation and Matchroom following the conclusion of the 2025 editions, it has been mutually agreed not to proceed with future editions of the World Pool Championship and the Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters.”

“Across 2024 and 2025, the Kingdom successfully staged two major events in Riyadh and Jeddah, welcoming world champions and providing 18 Saudi players with the opportunity to compete on the same stage. Thousands of spectators attended from nearly 40 countries, many experiencing elite live snooker and pool for the first time.

“During this period, Saudi juniors also progressed through international events, including World Nineball Tour competitions, Q Tour Middle East, and Asian junior championships, important early steps onto the global stage. We extend our sincere thanks to all players, officials, and participants for their contribution to the success of these events.”

Ranking Fallout Set To Hit Big Names

The cancellation carries major implications for the two-year rolling order of merit, with prize money from the event now unable to be defended.

As a result, the likes of Judd Trump and Neil Robertson, winners of the 2024 and 2025 editions respectively, stand to lose £500,000 from their rankings without the opportunity to defend it, unless an alternative structure or replacement events are introduced.

Mark Williams and Barry Hawkins have already shared their verdict on the tournament’s cancellation, with both players offering insight into the impact of the decision.

O’Sullivan Reacts After Crucible Exit

Possibly the most affected by this development is Ronnie O'Sullivan, who had already endured disappointment at the World Snooker Championship, losing a gripping 13-12 final-frame decider to long-time rival John Higgins.

The Rocket also has strong ties to Saudi Arabia, having launched the ‘Ronnie O’Sullivan Academy’ in Riyadh in 2024 to help grow the grassroots game.

“They Have To Get The Cheque Book Out”

When asked for his reaction to the tournament’s cancellation, O’Sullivan delivered a blunt assessment, making clear that financial terms ultimately dictate his participation.

“Listen, any tournament I go to, they all know they have to get the cheque book out, so wherever I go that's standard. If that stops then I stop. Wherever it is, Saudi, Qatar, China, here, whatever it is, I always make sure I've got some sort of fee coming because otherwise people know that I won't turn up,” O’Sullivan told SportsBoom.co.uk. 

Academy Future Uncertain But Options Remain

Despite his links to the region, O’Sullivan insists he is not overly concerned about the future of his academy or opportunities in Saudi Arabia.

“I have other options so I'm not really worried. Hopefully Saudi still want to do some stuff, but we'll have to wait and see, then I'll make my decisions based on whatever happens there.”

Playing Future Hinges On Enjoyment And Sponsors

With his Crucible campaign over, attention turns to whether O’Sullivan will return next season, but even that remains up in the air.

“That depends, you know, if my sponsors are on board then I’ll play. Listen, I’m not two feet in like pretty much most of the guys and, you know, I just play whenever I want to play. I’m just grateful to be playing. I enjoy my playing and that’s it. If I don’t enjoy it then I’ll take time out. If I’m enjoying it…we’ll see. It’s too hard to start speculating about next year already,” O’Sullivan concluded.