Global Pluto Snooker 900: A new event featuring a shot clock is set for May 2026, starring Ronnie O’Sullivan and Shaun Murphy.

Global Pluto Snooker 900: A new event featuring a shot clock is set for May 2026, starring Ronnie O’Sullivan and Shaun Murphy.

 

 

 

The world of professional snooker is preparing for a bold shake-up with the announcement of the Global Pluto Snooker 900, a brand-new invitational event scheduled for May 2026. Designed to inject speed, urgency and entertainment into the traditionally measured sport, the tournament will feature a shot-clock format and has already generated major buzz thanks to the confirmation of two of snooker’s biggest names: Ronnie O’Sullivan and Shaun Murphy.

As its name suggests, Snooker 900 will be played under a strict 15-minute frame limit, mirroring the successful fast-paced model seen in other cue-sports innovations. Each shot will be governed by a shot clock, forcing players to think and act quickly, rewarding instinctive play and punishing hesitation. Organisers believe the format will appeal to both long-time fans and a new, younger audience accustomed to faster-moving sports entertainment.

Ronnie O’Sullivan’s involvement alone guarantees global attention. Widely regarded as the most naturally gifted player the game has ever seen, O’Sullivan has long been an advocate for evolving snooker’s presentation and pacing. His attacking style, rapid cue action and comfort under time pressure make him a natural fit for the Snooker 900 concept. For many fans, the prospect of watching O’Sullivan unleash his game without the luxury of prolonged safety exchanges is reason enough to tune in.

Shaun Murphy, meanwhile, brings a contrasting but equally compelling presence. A former world champion and one of the sport’s most articulate ambassadors, Murphy has embraced innovation throughout his career, frequently supporting changes aimed at growing snooker’s reach. Known for his powerful long-potting and analytical approach, Murphy’s adaptation to the shot clock will be one of the event’s most intriguing storylines. His duels with O’Sullivan have produced some of snooker’s most memorable moments, and a time-pressured rematch adds an exciting new layer.

While full details of the field and venue are yet to be revealed, the “Global” branding suggests an international vision, potentially featuring elite players from across Europe and Asia alongside rising stars eager to make an impact. The compact format also opens the door to multiple matches in a single session, increasing drama and unpredictability.

Snooker 900 arrives at a time when the sport is actively exploring ways to modernise without losing its essence. Purists may remain cautious, but similar experiments have proven that innovation and tradition can coexist. By compressing the action and amplifying the pressure, the Global Pluto Snooker 900 promises high-stakes entertainment where every shot matters.

If the event delivers on its ambition, May 2026 could mark the beginning of a new chapter for snooker — one where lightning-fast decisions, bold shot-making and star power collide under the unforgiving countdown of the clock.