The Masters Snooker 2026 begins at Alexandra Palace with top 16 players, full schedule, TV details, key matches, and Ronnie O’Sullivan’s absence.
Shaun Murphy returns to Alexandra Palace aiming to retain his crown, while Judd Trump arrives as the favourite after consistent performances across the season. (Photo: Social Media)
The Masters Snooker tournament has returned this weekend, bringing together the world’s top 16 players for one of the most prestigious titles in the sport. Hosted at the iconic Alexandra Palace in north London, the tournament promises a week of high-quality snooker, intense rivalries, and title-defining moments.
Defending champion Shaun Murphy headlines the opening day as he begins his title defence against rising Chinese star Wu Yize. With world No. 1 Judd Trump, reigning world champion Zhao Xintong, and several former winners in action, the 2026 edition shapes up as a thrilling contest from start to finish.
The Masters stands apart from other ranking events because only the top 16 players in the world qualify. Every match carries pressure, and there are no easy draws. This year’s field includes five Chinese players, highlighting the growing global reach of the sport.
Shaun Murphy returns to Alexandra Palace aiming to retain his crown, while Judd Trump arrives as the favourite after consistent performances across the season.
Several blockbuster clashes headline the opening round. Judd Trump faces Ding Junhui in one of the most anticipated matches of the tournament. World champion Zhao Xintong opens his campaign against Gary Wilson, while experienced campaigners like Mark Selby, Mark Williams, John Higgins, and Neil Robertson also begin their runs.
One notable absence will be felt immediately.
Ronnie O’Sullivan, the eight-time Masters champion, withdrew at the last moment due to medical reasons. His absence removes one of the biggest attractions of the tournament. Chris Wakelin replaces O’Sullivan in the draw and will face Neil Robertson in the first round.
Despite O’Sullivan’s withdrawal, the tournament remains stacked with star power and compelling storylines.
The Masters runs from Sunday, January 11, to Sunday, January 18.
First-round matches follow a best-of-11 frames format. The final stretches to a best-of-19 frames, split across afternoon and evening sessions.
Daily sessions generally begin at 13:00 and 19:00, giving fans two chances each day to catch live action.
Fans can watch the entire tournament live across BBC platforms. Coverage includes:
Late-night highlights and extended coverage appear under the Masters Snooker Extra programming, allowing viewers to catch up on matches they may have missed.
All matches until the final follow a best-of-11 frames format, ensuring fast-paced contests where every frame matters. Quarter-final pairings depend on first-round results, setting up potential clashes between former champions and current top-ranked players.
The semi-finals and final promise longer sessions and deeper tactical battles as players edge closer to lifting the famous Masters trophy.
With no Ronnie O’Sullivan, the title race feels wide open. Judd Trump, Shaun Murphy, Zhao Xintong, and Neil Robertson all enter with strong chances. Meanwhile, younger players like Wu Yize and Si Jiahui look to make a statement on one of snooker’s biggest stages.
As the world’s best cueists gather under the Alexandra Palace lights, the Masters once again delivers drama, precision, and elite competition.
