Neil Robertson has received a timely lift ahead of his latest attempt to claim a maiden German Masters title at Berlin’s Tempodrom, with circumstances clearing his path into the latter stages of the tournament. The former world champion was due to face Chang Bingyu in the opening round on Monday, but the Chinese player has withdrawn because of visa complications. As a result, Robertson advances directly to the last 32, where he will now meet Pang Junxu.
Currently ranked world No. 3, Robertson has enjoyed strong form this season and will be hoping the altered draw helps him improve on his best German Masters run, which ended in a 9–6 defeat to Judd Trump in the 2020 final. Another withdrawal has also affected the draw, with Wu Yize pulling out on medical grounds ahead of his scheduled clash with Jordan Brown.
Speaking ahead of the event, Robertson reflected fondly on the unique atmosphere of the Tempodrom, likening the venue to the Roman Colosseum after a previous semi-final victory there over Shaun Murphy. He joked that he felt like Russell Crowe’s character in Gladiator, a comparison that unexpectedly caught the attention of the Hollywood star himself. Crowe later contacted Robertson on social media, a moment the Australian described as “awesome” and instantly memorable.
Robertson believes the Tempodrom stands apart from other iconic snooker venues, praising the passionate crowd and the arena’s dramatic setting. Meanwhile, defending champion Kyren Wilson begins his title defence against Robert Milkins, as the German Masters runs from January 26 to February 1, with £100,000 and the Brandon Parker Trophy awaiting the winner.
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