The Masters Snooker tournament is one of the most prestigious and longest-running events in the world of snooker. First held in 1975, this invitational tournament is now a favorite among snooker enthusiasts and has a rich history that showcases the talents of some of the greatest players in the sport. Let’s take a brief journey into the past and explore the roots and growth of Masters Snooker.
The event was the brainchild of Mike Watterson, a former professional snooker player turned promoter. Inspired by the success of the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA), Watterson saw an opportunity to create a unique snooker event that would capture the attention of fans worldwide. Up until that point, snooker tournaments were mainly played in a knockout format, but Watterson wanted to introduce a more exclusive and prestigious affair.
Thus, in 1975, the first Masters Snooker tournament was held at the West Centre Hotel in London. The inaugural event featured 10 players, including the likes of Ray Reardon, John Spencer, and Alex Higgins. Though it wasn’t an immediate success, the tournament steadily gained popularity over the years and evolved into one of the most anticipated events in the professional snooker calendar.
During its early years, the Masters Snooker tournament struggled to find a permanent home. The competition moved around various venues in London until 1981 when it settled at the iconic Wembley Conference Centre. Wembley then served as the home for the Masters until 2007, witnessing some pivotal moments in snooker history along the way.
Throughout the 1980s and early 1990s, the Masters brought forth some unforgettable matches and showcased the rivalry between snooker greats. Names like Steve Davis, Stephen Hendry, and Jimmy White became synonymous with the event as they battled fiercely for the coveted trophy. The format of the event also changed in 1984 from a straightforward knockout to a round-robin, with the top two players from each group progressing to the semifinals.
One of the most memorable moments in Masters Snooker history came in 1985 when Dennis Taylor and Steve Davis locked horns in an epic final. The match lasted for thirteen nail-biting frames, with Taylor eventually triumphing in the decider. This iconic final became widely known as the “black ball final” and is often regarded as one of the greatest matches ever played.
Another significant milestone in the history of Masters Snooker was the introduction of the triple crown. In 1990, the World Snooker Championship, the UK Championship, and the Masters were collectively recognized as the three most prestigious snooker events, thus solidifying their status and adding extra incentive for players to excel in these tournaments.
After Wembley, the Masters Snooker tournament found a new home at London’s Alexandra Palace in 2012, further elevating its grandeur. The event, which now features the world’s top 16 players, has continued to captivate fans with its uncompromising standards and electrifying atmosphere.
The Masters Snooker tournament has not only provided thrilling matches but has also seen records set and broken. The 1997 edition witnessed a remarkable feat by Ronnie O’Sullivan as he became the youngest winner at the age of 21, beating Davis with a scoreline of 10-8. O’Sullivan would later go on to become a dominant force in snooker and is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the sport’s history.
Over the years, the Masters Snooker tournament has solidified its place in the hearts of snooker fans worldwide. From its humble beginnings in 1975 to its current status as a highly anticipated event, the Masters Snooker tournament perfectly encapsulates the essence of the sport. As the event continues to grow and evolve, new chapters will undoubtedly be added to its fascinating history.