World Snooker Championship: What You Need to Know

If you’re a snooker fan, the World Snooker Championship is the biggest event of the year. It runs every April‑May at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, and every match draws millions of eyes. Whether you’re tracking Ronnie O’Sullivan’s comeback, checking the latest draw, or figuring out how to stream the action, this guide gives you the practical details you need.

Key Dates and How to Watch Live

The tournament kicks off with the first round on the first Monday of May and wraps up with the final on the last Saturday. Qualifying matches happen in the weeks before the main event, and they’re streamed on the World Snooker YouTube channel and the official app. For the Crucible sessions, you can tune in via BBC Sport in the UK, or use the World Snooker Live Pass for international viewers. The pass offers multiple camera angles, replay features and a chat box where fans discuss each frame.

Top Players to Watch

Every year the field is packed with seasoned pros and hungry newcomers. Defending champion Luca Brecel is looking to add another title, while Mark Selby aims for a record‑tying sixth crown. Newer faces like Fan Zhengyi have already pulled off a few upsets, so keep an eye on the lower‑seeded players—they often make the most dramatic comebacks. Player rankings are updated after each round, so you can see who’s moving up the ladder in real time.

Ticket prices vary by session. Early‑round tickets are cheaper, but the final night commands a premium price. If you can’t make it to Sheffield, the live‑stream is the next best thing. The official app also lets you set alerts for your favorite players, so you won’t miss a crucial frame.

Beyond the matches, the championship offers a chance to soak up snooker culture. The venue’s bar serves classic British snacks, and the surrounding city hosts fan meet‑ups and merchandise stalls. Checking the official schedule will tell you when autograph sessions and fan Q&A events happen.

In short, the World Snooker Championship blends high‑stakes drama with a community vibe. Follow the live scores, grab a stream or a ticket, and enjoy every pot, safety and clutch clearance. The tournament is more than just sport—it’s a celebration of precision, strategy and the love of the green baize.

World Snooker Championship 2025: Zhao Xintong and Mark Williams to Clash in Crucible Final

World Snooker Championship 2025: Zhao Xintong and Mark Williams to Clash in Crucible Final

At the 2025 World Snooker Championship, Zhao Xintong advanced to his first Crucible final after a stunning lead over Ronnie O'Sullivan, while Mark Williams edged past Judd Trump. The final showdown between Zhao and Williams begins May 4 at Sheffield's Crucible Theatre in a best-of-35-frames battle for snooker's top prize.