‘The best event on tour’ – Ronnie O’Sullivan on why Saudi Arabia Masters has ‘raised the bar’ for professional snooker – Eurosport

The inaugural Saudi Arabia Masters is already the best event on the professional snooker circuit, according to seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan.

Only the World Championship has a larger prize fund than the new £2.3million ranking tournament in Riyadh, but O’Sullivan feels the new competition is second to none in term of facilities for the 144 players in the field.

Ahead of his opening match against Chinese talent Lei Peifan in the last 32 on Tuesday night at 6pm, O’Sullivan was quick to explain why Saudi Arabia has set a new standard for the sport across the world as he prepares to chase the £500,000 first prize.

“I’ve never seen so many happy snooker players, everyone is excited to be here, we want to compete, play well and put on a really good show for the Saudi Arabian fans.

“We’ve already seen a 147, which is fantastic, and the tournament has just begun. All the top players are about to enter the event and hopefully everyone’s going to watch some of the best snooker they could possibly see.

“The tables, the facilities, the venue that’s been put together; this tournament deserves to watch the best snooker ever seen. It really is that good.”

O’Sullivan will reclaim the world No. 1 spot if he secures the 42nd ranking title of his 32-year career on Saturday night.