The draw for snooker's prestigious 2026 Masters tournament has been confirmed, promising a spectacular week of action at London's Alexandra Palace. The invitational event, featuring the world's top 16 players, will run from January 11 to 18 with a top prize of £350,000 on offer.
Blockbuster First-Round Clashes
Defending champion Shaun Murphy, who triumphed over Kyren Wilson in the 2025 final, will begin his title defence against Chinese debutant Wu Yize. The draw has also thrown up several mouth-watering ties, headlined by a heavyweight battle between Judd Trump and Ding Junhui. Another standout match sees Mark Williams take on Mark Allen.
The full first-round draw is as follows:
- Zhao Xintong vs Gary Wilson
- Shaun Murphy vs Wu Yize
- Judd Trump vs Ding Junhui
- Kyren Wilson vs Si Jiahui
- John Higgins vs Barry Hawkins
- Mark Williams vs Mark Allen
- Ronnie O'Sullivan/Mark Selby vs Xiao Guodong
- Neil Robertson vs Ronnie O'Sullivan/Mark Selby
The O'Sullivan Question and a Waiting Game
One pivotal pairing remains dependent on the outcome of the UK Championship final. If Mark Selby beats Judd Trump, he will face Xiao Guodong, pitting Ronnie O'Sullivan against Neil Robertson. Should Selby lose, he will meet Robertson, with O'Sullivan taking on Xiao.
However, a major subplot is whether Ronnie O'Sullivan will compete at all. The seven-time champion has previously skipped the tournament, including the 2025 edition after breaking his cue. Following a recent defeat, O'Sullivan told the BBC his participation was uncertain, stating he would "have a nice Christmas... and see how I feel come January." World number 17 Chris Wakelin is on standby should 'The Rocket' withdraw.
Ally Pally's Storied History
Since moving from Wembley Arena in 2012, Alexandra Palace has become the iconic home of the Masters. Neil Robertson won the first edition at the north London venue, defeating Shaun Murphy, and has since reached three more finals there, claiming the title again in 2022. Robertson now faces a tricky first-round task, awaiting the identity of his opponent from the O'Sullivan/Selby duo.
With champion-calibre matches from the very first session, the 2026 Masters is poised to deliver another unforgettable chapter in snooker history at one of its most beloved venues.
