News Pool

Get Ready for the Spanish Open: A Thrilling Pool Championship in Lugo, Spain

The world of pool is abuzz with excitement as Matchroom Pool announces the Spanish Open Pool Championship, set to take place from 20-25 June 2023 in Lugo, Spain. With a $200,000 prize fund and top players from around the world competing, this event promises to be a thrilling showcase of skill and talent. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the details of the Spanish Open, from the venue and dates to the format and entry process. Get ready to mark your calendars and prepare for an unforgettable pool championship in the beautiful city of Lugo, Spain.

Venue and Dates

The Spanish Open Pool Championship will be held at the prestigious Pazo De Feiras E Congresos De Lugo in Lugo, Spain. Known for its historical architecture and rich cultural heritage, Lugo provides the perfect backdrop for this major pool event. The championship will take place from 20-25 June 2023, giving players and fans alike ample time to plan their trip and experience the excitement firsthand.

Prize Fund and Format

With a generous $200,000 prize fund, the Spanish Open Pool Championship promises to attract top players from around the world. The tournament will feature a 256-player field, with a seeded double elimination stage followed by single elimination rounds. The top 128 players on the Nineball World Rankings will receive priority entry, with the remaining spots open for grabs through the entry process. This format ensures a high level of competition and promises thrilling matches as players vie for the coveted championship title.

Entry Process

Player entries for the Spanish Open Pool Championship will open on Monday, 3 April. As mentioned earlier, the top 64 players on the current Nineball World Rankings will be given priority entry, with the remaining spots available through the entry process. The entry fee is $250, and players are encouraged to secure their spot early to avoid disappointment. This is a unique opportunity for pool players to compete at an international level and showcase their skills on a global stage.

Matchroom Pool and The Asociación Gallega de Billar Pool Partnership

The Spanish Open Pool Championship is the fifth 256-player field tournament promoted by Matchroom on the Nineball World Tour in partnership with The Asociación Gallega de Billar Pool (AGP). The AGP was founded in 1992 with the aim of promoting and disseminating pool billiards in Galicia, Spain. Over the years, the AGP has organized various championships, attracting renowned players from around the world. The partnership between Matchroom Pool and AGP highlights the growing popularity and potential of pool in Spain, and the Spanish Open Pool Championship is a significant milestone in this partnership.

Live Coverage and Broadcast

The Spanish Open Pool Championship will be available for live coverage around the world, split across the Double Elimination and Single Elimination stages of the tournament. Matchroom.Live and Matchroom Pool social media channels will produce the streamed double elimination stage, while Sky Sports, DAZN, Viaplay, and Matchroom.Live will televise the Last 16 onwards, along with other broadcasters worldwide. This ensures that fans from all over the world can follow the action and witness the excitement of the Spanish Open Pool Championship.

Conclusion

The Spanish Open Pool Championship is set to be a thrilling and unforgettable event, with top players from around the world competing for a substantial prize fund in the historic city of Lugo, Spain. The partnership between Matchroom Pool and AGP, the unique format, and the live coverage promise to make this championship a landmark event for pool in Spain and beyond. As fans eagerly await the tournament, players are preparing to compete against the best in the world, including top-ranked Francisco Sanchez Ruiz, and secure their place in pool history. With the added excitement of further announcements to come from Matchroom Pool and AGP later this week, the Spanish Open Pool Championship is shaping up to be a must-see event for fans of the sport. Don’t miss your chance to witness history in the making at the Pazo De Feiras E Congresos De Lugo from 20-25 June 2023.

World Pool Masters 2023 Offers Record Prize Fund and Welcomes Zheng Xiao Huai from China

If you’re a fan of pool, get ready for some exciting news! The World Pool Masters 2023 is just around the corner, and it’s shaping up to be an event to remember. With a record prize fund and the inclusion of Zheng Xiao Huai from China, this year’s tournament promises to be one of the most thrilling and competitive yet. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the exciting updates for the World Pool Masters 2023, including the increased prize fund and the return of China to the international stage in Nineball.

Record Prize Fund: Pool’s Biggest Event Yet

One of the most significant updates for the World Pool Masters 2023 is the record-breaking prize fund. With a total of $125,000 up for grabs, including $40,000 for the winner, this tournament is set to be one of the most lucrative events in the world of pool. The increased prize fund is a testament to the growing popularity and recognition of pool as a competitive sport, and it’s sure to attract top talent from around the globe. Pool players will be competing at the highest level, vying for a chance to claim the substantial prize money and make their mark in the world of professional pool.

Welcoming Zheng Xiao Huai from China

Another exciting development for the World Pool Masters 2023 is the inclusion of Zheng Xiao Huai from China. Zheng Xiao Huai has been awarded the first wild card for the event, marking China’s return to the international pool stage after a two-year absence. This is a significant milestone for Chinese pool players, as it showcases their talent and skill on the global stage. Zheng Xiao Huai will be representing China at the World Pool Masters 2023, adding a new level of excitement and competition to the tournament. Fans can expect to see top-level performances from Zheng Xiao Huai and witness the growing presence of Chinese players in the world of professional pool.

Top Players from Around the World

In addition to the increased prize fund and China’s return, the World Pool Masters 2023 will feature the top 14 players from the Nineball World Rankings after the World Pool Championship. This underscores the importance of the ranking system introduced by Matchroom at the beginning of 2021, which has become a key factor in determining qualification for prestigious events like the World Pool Masters. With top-ranked players like Joshua Filler, Francisco Sanchez Ruiz, Shane Van Boening, and Jayson Shaw in the mix, fans can expect to witness world-class performances and fierce competition. The tournament will showcase the best of the best in the world of professional pool, making for an unforgettable spectacle.

Accessible Tickets for Fans

Matchroom is making sure that fans can be a part of this historic invitational event with affordable ticket prices. Starting at just £10, fans can enjoy all four days of thrilling pool action for only £60. This makes it accessible and affordable for fans to witness the world’s top pool players compete at the highest level. The priority sale for Matchroom Pool Club members begins on Monday, February 20, with general sale following on Tuesday, February 21. Pool enthusiasts and fans alike can seize the opportunity to be a part of the World Pool Masters 2023 and witness the excitement and drama of professional pool in person.

Conclusion: Get Ready for a Thrilling Event

In conclusion, the World Pool Masters 2023 is set to be an exhilarating event for pool fans. With a record prize fund, the return of China to the international stage, and the participation of top-ranked players, this tournament promises to be one of the most memorable yet. The inclusion of Zheng Xiao Huai from China adds a new dimension to the competition, showcasing the growing presence and talent of Chinese players in the world of professional pool. Fans can look forward to witnessing world-class performances, fierce competition, and unforgettable moments throughout the tournament.

30th Mosconi Cup to be the Biggest in History: What You Need to Know

The Mosconi Cup, an annual transatlantic pool tournament between Team Europe and Team USA, is set to celebrate its 30th year anniversary in grand style. With the event scheduled to take place from December 6-9 at Alexandra Palace in London, fans can expect an unforgettable showdown between the best pool players from both sides of the Atlantic. But that’s not all – the 2023 Mosconi Cup is also set to be the biggest in history, with a significant increase in prize money, exciting qualification opportunities, and more. In this blog post, we will dive into the details of what to expect from the 30th Mosconi Cup, including the increased prize money, qualification process, ticket sales, and the current standings in the Race to Mosconi Cup rankings.

Live Covertage: Watch Today’s Match LIVE!

Increased Prize Money

The 30th Mosconi Cup is set to make history with a significant increase in prize money. Each player and captain on the winning team will take home an impressive $40,000, while the runners-up and captain will collect $20,000 each. This increase in prize money is sure to add even more excitement and intensity to the competition, making it a highly coveted event for the world’s top pool players.

Qualification Process

The qualification process for the Mosconi Cup has also undergone some changes for the 30th edition. Three spots on each team will be earned from the Nineball World Rankings, with the Race to Mosconi Cup one-year list in play. The first automatic pick for each team will be determined after the conclusion of the European Open Pool Championship, which is scheduled to take place in Fulda, Germany from August 8-13. The final two automatic selections will be determined at the US Open Pool Championship, which will be held at Harrah’s Resort in Atlantic City from September 25-30. The remaining two spots on each team will be wild cards, as decided by the respective team captains. This revamped qualification process is sure to add an extra layer of competitiveness and intrigue to the Mosconi Cup, as players battle it out to earn their spot on the prestigious teams.

Ticket Sales

If you’re a pool fan and want to witness the 30th Mosconi Cup live, you’ll need to mark your calendars for the week commencing April 24, as that’s when tickets for the event will go on sale. Full ticket details are expected to be released soon, and fans can sign up for the priority sale window to ensure they don’t miss out on the chance to witness the thrilling competition between Team Europe and Team USA.

Current Standings in the Race to Mosconi Cup

As of the World Pool Championship, the current standings in the Race to Mosconi Cup rankings are as follows:

Francisco Sanchez-Ruiz from Spain is currently in the lead with $60,000 in earnings.
Fedor Gorst is in second place with $18,700.
Mario He from Austria holds the third spot with $17,500.
Jayson Shaw from Great Britain is in fourth place with $15,300.
Shane Van Boening from the USA holds the fifth spot with $13,500.

These standings are subject to change as more tournaments take place in the lead-up to the Mosconi Cup, and players continue to compete for their chance to represent their respective teams in the prestigious event.

Conclusion

The 30th Mosconi Cup is shaping up to be the biggest in history, with increased prize money, an exciting qualification process, and ticket sales set to begin soon. Pool fans around the world can look forward to witnessing the intense competition between Team Europe and Team USA as they battle it out at Alexandra Palace in London from December 6-9, 2023. With each player and captain on the winning team set to take home a substantial $40,000, the stakes are higher than ever. The Nineball World Rankings will play a crucial role in determining the three automatic picks for each team, with the final two spots to be decided by the team captains as wild cards.

Expanding Horizons: Nineball World Tour Launches in Oceania with Pockets Sports Partnership

Matchroom Pool is excited to announce the expansion of the Nineball World Tour into the Oceania region, in partnership with Pockets Sports, Oceania’s largest professional English 8 Ball Pool Promoter. This collaboration aims to bring professional Nineball to the Oceania region, offering players from Australia, New Zealand, and other countries the opportunity to compete in local events and accumulate valuable Nineball World Ranking points. With a minimum of four ranking events planned for 2023 and the first-ever Oceania Open set to take place in 2024, this partnership opens up new possibilities for pool players in the region.

Unveiling the Nineball Oceania Tour

The Nineball Oceania Tour is set to kick off with a series of ranking events in 2023, organized and broadcasted by Pockets Sports. This collaboration with Matchroom Pool aims to provide a fair and transparent system for players in the Oceania region to earn Nineball World Ranking points, which are essential for gaining entry into prestigious tournaments in the sport. With Pockets Sports hosting over 18 weekends of competitive and professional grade 8 Ball Pool events, the addition of Nineball to their calendar marks an exciting step forward for the sport in the Oceania region.

Benefits for Players

The launch of the Nineball Oceania Tour brings numerous benefits for players in the region. Previously, players had to travel to other countries to participate in Nineball World Ranking events, which could be challenging and costly. With the collaboration between Matchroom Pool and Pockets Sports, players now have the opportunity to compete locally, accumulate ranking points, and win prize money, all while playing in a competitive and professional environment. This allows players to develop their skills and be included in the Nineball ranking system without the need for extensive travel.

Testimonials from Players

Leading players from Australia, such as Justin Sajich, have expressed their excitement about the launch of the Nineball Oceania Tour. Sajich stated, “I am excited that Matchroom Pool and Pockets Sports are collaborating to bring a world-class tournament to my home country. I haven’t played in a Matchroom event for over 12 months, and I am glad I now have one close to home.” This sentiment is echoed by many players in the region who are eager to participate in local events and compete against top-class players from around the world.

The Vision for the Future

Arthur Titus, Director of Pocket Sports, is thrilled to be moving into Nineball in partnership with Matchroom Pool, stating, “This partnership with Matchroom will see Pockets host, organise, and broadcast four Nineball World Ranking Events this year alone and an Oceania Open with the aim to host at Crown Casino Melbourne in early 2024.” The aim is to further develop the Nineball scene in the Oceania region and provide opportunities for players to excel in the sport.

Conclusion

The launch of the Nineball Oceania Tour in partnership with Pockets Sports marks an exciting development for the sport of pool in the Oceania region. With a series of ranking events planned for 2023 and the first-ever Oceania Open set to take place in 2024, this collaboration opens up new opportunities for players to compete locally, earn ranking points, and participate in prestigious tournaments. Matchroom Pool’s commitment to expanding the Nineball World Tour and providing a fair and transparent system for players worldwide is commendable, and the partnership with Pockets Sports is set to propel the sport of Nineball to new heights in Oceania.

Matchroom Pool Presents: The Jayson Shaw Junior Open at the UK Open in London

Matchroom Pool, a leading organization in the world of cue sports, is thrilled to announce the launch of the Jayson Shaw Junior Open, set to take place during the UK Open at the Copper Box Arena in London. This exciting tournament offers 64 of the best up-and-coming junior pool players the opportunity to compete alongside the pros in the second edition of the UK Open, a prestigious event in the world of Nineball. In this blog post, we will dive into the details of the Jayson Shaw Junior Open, including the tournament format, prize fund, eligibility, and the significance of this event for junior players.

A Unique Opportunity for Junior Pool Player

The Jayson Shaw Junior Open is part of Matchroom Pool’s commitment to growing Nineball and providing opportunities for young players to showcase their talent. This tournament is the second junior open on the Matchroom calendar, following the SVB Junior Open which took place for the first time last year during the US Open in Atlantic City. With the launch of the Jayson Shaw Junior Open, junior pool players from around the world will have a chance to compete at one of London’s most historic sporting arenas and gain valuable experience in a professional setting.

Tournament Format and Prize Fund

The Jayson Shaw Junior Open will feature a free-to-enter tournament format, with 64 junior players vying for a spot in the 2024 UK Open and a share of the $10,000 prize fund. The tournament will take place on June 2-3, during the penultimate stages of the main UK Open, allowing junior players to compete alongside the pros and gain exposure to a wider audience. Juniors competing in the tournament will also receive a custom jersey provided by Onboard Sportswear as well as Kamui chalk and cue tip.

Eligibility and Exclusivity

The Jayson Shaw Junior Open is open to junior pool players who meet the eligibility criteria set by Matchroom Pool. However, juniors competing in the tournament will not be eligible to compete in the main UK Open Pool Championship due to match schedules. As part of the entry to the Jayson Shaw Junior Open, juniors will be offered a free season pass for themselves and one adult, allowing them to enjoy the entire UK Open and observe the world’s best players in action. This exclusivity adds to the significance of the Jayson Shaw Junior Open, providing a unique opportunity for junior players to showcase their skills on a grand stage.

Live Streaming and Media Coverage

The final of the Jayson Shaw Junior Open will be live-streamed on the Matchroom Pool social media pages, allowing fans and supporters from around the world to watch the action in real-time. In addition, coverage of the tournament is set to feature during the live broadcast on Sky Sports in the UK and networks worldwide, providing further exposure for the junior players and highlighting the significance of the event.

Significance for Junior Pool Players

The Jayson Shaw Junior Open holds immense significance for junior pool players. It provides a platform for young players to compete alongside the pros, gain valuable experience, and showcase their skills to a wider audience. The opportunity to play in a prestigious event like the UK Open in London can be a game-changer for young players, propelling them towards a successful career in the world of Nineball. It also underscores Matchroom Pool’s commitment to nurturing and promoting young talent, and the organization’s efforts to grow the sport of Nineball at the grassroots level.

Conclusion

The Jayson Shaw Junior Open at the UK Open in London is a groundbreaking event that offers a unique opportunity for junior pool players to compete alongside the pros, gain exposure on a global stage, and potentially kickstart their careers in the world of Nineball. With its free-to-enter format, custom jerseys, Kamui chalk and cue tip, and live streaming and media coverage, this tournament is set to be an exciting and significant event for junior players. Matchroom Pool’s commitment to nurturing young talent and growing the sport at the grassroots level is evident in the launch of the Jayson Shaw Junior Open, and it promises to be an unforgettable experience for all participants. Keep an eye out for the action-packed tournament in June 2023, as the next generation of pool stars takes center stage at the UK Open in London.