Historic £1M Prize Up for Grabs as O’Sullivan and Snooker’s Elite Chase the Million-Dollar 167 Break in Riyadh

The stage is set for an exciting showdown at the Riyadh Season Snooker Championship, taking place from December 18-20 at Boulevard City, Saudi Arabia. The event, broadcast live on Eurosport and Discovery+, promises not only thrilling matches but also a groundbreaking opportunity for players to earn the richest prize in snooker history.

The tournament, featuring the world’s top 10 players, offers a £250,000 winner’s prize. However, the real allure lies in the chance to complete the first-ever 167 break, an achievement made possible by the inclusion of a novelty golden ball. Placed on the baulk cushion at the beginning of each frame, the golden ball remains in play until a maximum 147 break is no longer achievable. If successfully potted after the final black of a 147, the golden ball is worth an additional 20 points, creating the historic 167 score.

A player achieving the elusive 167 will earn an astonishing $1 million (£788,291) bonus, dwarfing the rewards for most other achievements in the sport. If this feat is accomplished by the tournament winner, their total earnings could exceed £1 million—a first in professional snooker.

Ronnie O’Sullivan, widely regarded as the greatest snooker player of all time, returns to defend his title. The 48-year-old compiled his record 15th and so far final 147 break at the English Open in 2018 but has every reason to target the 167 milestone with the prize money at stake. His path to glory last season included dominant wins over John Higgins, Judd Trump, and Luca Brecel, proving his enduring brilliance.

John Higgins, a four-time world champion, came closest to the 167 at the Riyadh event previously but narrowly missed the final yellow ball in a 4-2 win over Mark Williams. This year’s field, including stars like Judd Trump and recent UK Championship winner Zhang Anda, will be equally determined to claim both the trophy and the golden ball bonus.

O’Sullivan’s words last season suggest he’s focused on completing the feat: “The tournament this year, and the golden ball next year. It would be great.” With snooker’s elite competing for record-breaking earnings, the Riyadh Season Championship could redefine the sport’s history.