The Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters, one of the richest tournaments on the World Snooker Tour, has been cancelled after only two events, leaving players frustrated and demanding answers.
Barry Hawkins, a former World Championship finalist, expressed his anger at how the news was delivered. Speaking after his 13-9 victory over Mark Williams in the World Championship, Hawkins said: "What a disappointment. Something's gone wrong for us to lose that tournament. What's happened to the 10-year contract? We just got a stupid email saying it's been stopped, with no explanation. Very disappointing."
The ranking tournament, launched in 2024 as part of a 10-year deal, was touted as snooker's "fourth major" and boasted a £2.3 million prize fund, with £500,000 for the winner—matching the World Championship. However, the event will not return.
World Snooker Tour confirmed the decision in a statement: "Following constructive discussions between the Saudi Billiard and Snooker Federation and Matchroom after 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."
Earlier this week, Matchroom Sport president Barry Hearn hinted at troubles, citing Middle East conflicts. "Saudi is a problem," Hearn said. "We don't know where that problem's going to lead. Saudi are looking to cut back—whether it's LIV Golf or other sports. We can't interfere with what's going on. This is a terribly difficult time for the Middle East."
Players are left seeking clarity on the abrupt end of a tournament that promised to be a cornerstone of the snooker calendar.