The 2026 World Seniors Snooker Championship continues today with two huge names back under the lights at the famous Crucible Theatre as Ken Doherty and Jimmy White begin their campaigns, while Ronnie O’Sullivan waits in round two for a potential blockbuster clash.
The expanded 24-player tournament, running from May 6-10 in Sheffield, has already produced a lively opening day and organisers believe this could be the strongest field in the event’s history.
Today’s afternoon session sees 1997 world champion Doherty take on Gerard Greene, with the winner earning the right to face O’Sullivan in the last 16 tomorrow. The possibility of Doherty meeting “The Rocket” at the Crucible has generated huge excitement among fans, especially as the pair have shared a rivalry spanning more than three decades.
Doherty admitted ahead of the event that lifting the seniors crown would complete a remarkable career collection after previously winning world amateur, under-21 and professional world titles. The Irishman has twice gone close in this event and is determined to finally get over the line.
White, meanwhile, faces qualifier Daniel Ward in another headline first-round tie. The six-time world finalist remains one of the biggest attractions in seniors snooker and is chasing yet another memorable run at the Crucible. If White progresses, he will meet Rob Milkins later tonight.
Elsewhere on Thursday, Peter Lines takes on Anthony Hamilton, while Dominic Dale meets Wayne Townsend. Evening action also includes appearances from Matthew Stevens and Ali Carter.
The major talking point this year is the debut of seven-time world champion O’Sullivan in the seniors event. The 50-year-old entered the tournament shortly after another dramatic campaign on the professional circuit and arrives as one of the headline attractions in Sheffield.
Defending champion Alfie Burden is also back to defend his title, while former ranking event winners Stuart Bingham, Carter and Joe Perry strengthen a stacked field.
The tournament carries a record £80,000 prize fund, with the winner set to collect £30,000 — the biggest top prize in seniors tour history.
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