Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Sport and the Saudi Billiards & Snooker Federation Appoint Ronnie O’Sullivan to Key Role in Snooker’s Saudi Arabian Project as Golden Ball ‘167’ Event Looks Set to Return.

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Sport and the Saudi Billiards & Snooker Federation Appoint Ronnie O’Sullivan to Key Role in Snooker’s Saudi Arabian Project as Golden Ball ‘167’ Event Looks Set to Return.

 

 

 

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Sport and the Saudi Billiards & Snooker Federation have reportedly strengthened their involvement with snooker by appointing Ronnie O’Sullivan to a key ambassadorial role as the country continues its ambitious push into the sport. The move comes as the innovative Golden Ball ‘167’ event looks increasingly likely to return following the attention it generated during snooker’s recent expansion into Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia has rapidly become one of the biggest new investors in global sport over the last few years, with boxing, football, golf, Formula One and esports all receiving major backing. Snooker has now joined that list, with the kingdom eager to establish itself as a significant force within the sport’s international calendar.

The arrival of Saudi-backed tournaments created major discussion throughout the snooker world, particularly after the launch of the Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters. The event attracted many of the sport’s top stars and offered one of the richest prize funds seen outside the World Championship. Organisers also introduced the now-famous “golden ball” concept, which gave players the opportunity to make a unique 167 break — one point higher than the traditional maximum 147.

The format immediately captured attention from fans and players alike. Under the rules, the golden ball could only be potted after a player completed a maximum break, adding an extra layer of drama and difficulty. Although no player managed to complete the 167 during the tournament, the challenge became one of the biggest talking points of the event.

Now, fresh reports suggest the concept is expected to return in future Saudi-backed snooker competitions, with officials believing the innovation brought added excitement and worldwide publicity to the sport.

At the centre of the project is seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan, who remains snooker’s biggest global star. The Englishman has long been viewed as one of the most influential figures in cue sports history due to his extraordinary talent, charisma and popularity across different countries.

Saudi organisers see O’Sullivan as the ideal figure to help grow snooker in the region. His involvement is expected to include promotional appearances, development programmes, exhibitions and ambassadorial duties connected to future tournaments in the kingdom.

The 49-year-old has already spoken positively about snooker’s expansion into new markets, insisting the sport must continue evolving if it wants to attract younger audiences and larger global attention. Saudi Arabia’s financial backing has provided opportunities for larger prize funds, improved production and fresh ideas designed to modernise the game.

However, the project has not been without controversy. Some traditional fans remain concerned about the growing influence of Saudi Arabia in world sport, while others fear that historic venues and tournaments could eventually lose their importance.

Debate intensified after discussions emerged regarding the long-term future of the World Snooker Championship at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield. While current agreements are expected to keep the event in Sheffield for years to come, speculation over possible Saudi interest created headlines across the sport.

Despite the criticism, several leading players have openly welcomed Saudi Arabia’s investment. Many believe the additional funding could improve earning opportunities for professionals lower down the rankings while also helping snooker expand into untapped regions around the world.

O’Sullivan himself has frequently argued that snooker needs stronger commercial growth to compete with other major sports. He has praised efforts to create bigger events capable of attracting mainstream audiences and international sponsors.

The possible return of the Golden Ball ‘167’ challenge is expected to play a major role in that strategy. Tournament organisers reportedly view the concept as a unique selling point capable of generating viral moments and attracting casual viewers unfamiliar with snooker’s traditional format.

Fans are also eager to see whether a player can finally achieve the elusive 167 break. Even completing a standard maximum 147 remains one of the hardest achievements in sport, meaning the addition of the golden ball makes the challenge even more extraordinary.

With Ronnie O’Sullivan now expected to take on a larger role within the Saudi project, excitement surrounding the country’s snooker ambitions continues to grow. Whether through exhibition matches, ambassadorial appearances or future Saudi Masters events, the partnership signals Saudi Arabia’s determination to become a long-term force in professional snooker.

For now, the snooker world waits to see how far the project will go — and whether the famous golden ball will eventually produce one of the sport’s greatest moments.