Ronnie O’Sullivan had a missed opportunity to pocket the special golden ball while practicing for the upcoming Riyadh Season Snooker Championship. With his eye on winning the title for the second time, ‘The Rocket’ aims to avoid a similar mistake during the tournament.
In a unique twist, the event has introduced a golden ball worth an additional 20 points, remaining on the table if a player is on track for a maximum 147 break. If a player achieves a maximum break, they have the chance to pot the high-value golden ball for a record-breaking 167 break.
The stakes are high as the player who achieves this milestone stands to earn a substantial £760,000 ($1 million) bonus, significantly more than the £250,000 prize for the tournament winner. However, O’Sullivan’s practice session highlighted the challenge of potting the golden ball.
A video shared by the World Snooker Tour on social media captured nine out of the 12 tournament players successfully potting a black before attempting the golden ball. O’Sullivan, leading the way, saw his shot rebound off the cushion.
Fortunately, O’Sullivan was not alone in missing the mark. Other players like Neil Robertson, Zhao Xintong, Shaun Murphy, and Ding Junhui will also be hoping for better luck if the opportunity arises during their matches.
On the other hand, Mark Williams, Mark Allen, and John Higgins are eager for their practice efforts to pay off after successfully potting the golden ball. Kyren Wilson even displayed his confidence with a no-look pot.
O’Sullivan will commence his campaign against either Masters champion Murphy or Saudi Arabian player Ziyad Alqabbani on Wednesday evening. The 49-year-old previously triumphed in the inaugural tournament in March 2024 by defeating Luca Brecel in the final. While seeking another title in Riyadh, O’Sullivan expressed his desire to achieve the first 167 break in snooker history.
The defending champion, Mark Allen, secured victory in last December’s final against Brecel. The Riyadh Season Snooker Championship includes the world’s top 10 players and two Saudi Arabian wildcards.
Scheduled over three days, the competition will culminate with the semi-finals and the final taking place on Friday, November 21.