06 March 2024 , 20:43
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Judd Trump has startlingly claimed that the atmosphere at the Saudi Arabia World Masters of Snooker is better than that of some events in the United Kingdom.
The tournament in the Middle East has faced questions over small attendances but Trump defended the event as he reached the semi-finals of the competition. The World Snooker Tour said the tournament was a sell-out but few fans were spotted for the opening of the competition with player introductions met with silence.
That did not stop accusations moving members of the audience cost John Higgins a maximum break early in the competition. His concentration appeared to be broken as fans walked in his eyeline to end his effort at 120.
Trump had kinder words for the crowds that he experienced however. The World No.2 suggested the supporters present at the Boulevard Arena in Riyadh had made their presence felt on his match.
Trump said: “It’s a really good atmosphere, especially when I walked in. I was very happy out there, they (the crowd) brought the best out of both of us, so it’s a lot better than a lot of atmosphere we play in the UK.
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“I can’t wait, I’m absolutely thrilled to still be in the event, it’s kind of just a free shot. It’s a pleasure to be here playing in another big event and I can’t wait to get going.”
The Riyadh season event drew attention as it experiments with a 'golden' 167 maximum break, as opposed to the usual 147. The tournament has an additional ball that can be potted for 20 points when a traditional maximum break is made.
The world No.2 claimed the Saudi Arabian crowd have been better than the UK (WST)A lofty £645,000 jackpot was made available for any player that could win the tournament and complete a maximum. That is in comparision to the World Championship offering £500,000 for the victory with another £20,000 available if a break of 147 is completed.
Trump was joined by Ronnie O'Sullivan, Mark Allen and Luca Brecel in the semi-finals of the tournament. The Rocket overcame Trump with a 4-1 victory to meet Brecel in the final.
O'Sullivan was unimpressed by both his and Trump's performances. "It wasn't great," he said. "Judd was probably the worst I've ever seen him play. I think I dragged him down to my level.
"I played really well last night (in a 4-0 win over John Higgins), I had a bit of expectation coming in here, thinking I can put two matches together playing well, but that's put that out the window."
Belgian world champion Brecel earned a 4-2 win to secure his place against O'Sullivan.