Barry Hearn warns snooker stars against joining breakaway LIV-style tour

Barry Hearn’s recent comments on the breakaway LIV-style rival tour have sent shockwaves through the snooker world, with the World Snooker Tour president warning players that they could be sacrificing their earnings by joining such a tour. With Ronnie O’Sullivan recently signing a three-year deal with Saudi Arabia, speculation about his retirement has been put to rest as he continues to chase his eighth World Snooker Championship title.

Hearn emphasized the commercial power of the World Snooker Tour, highlighting the potential rise in prize money to £20 million next season. He also pointed out an alternative offer for players to participate in eight events for a guaranteed sum of £350,000, far surpassing the rumored figures of the breakaway tour.

While acknowledging that players must make decisions based on what benefits them and their families, Hearn made it clear that the financial incentives offered by the WST are hard to ignore. He also issued a warning to Sheffield City Council regarding the future of the World Snooker Championship, stating that the tournament could be moved if a new venue is not built.

Hearn’s stance on the situation is resolute, emphasizing the importance of financial considerations in the decision-making process. As the snooker world awaits further developments, it is clear that the landscape of the sport could be set for significant changes in the near future.