Ronnie O'Sullivan reveals ultimate aim after opening historic first snooker academy in Saudi Arabia
Published 15/10/2024 at 15:44 GMT+1
Snooker GOAT Ronnie O'Sullivan has opened his first snooker academy in Saudi Arabia's capital city, Riyadh, as the seven-time world champion bids to boost the growth of the game in the Middle East. "I would love to see tour players and even world champions from Saudi Arabia one day," said O'Sullivan, after announcing the project endorsed by the government to promote local talent in the area.
Watch as O'Sullivan clinches glory in final of Riyadh Season World Masters
Video credit: TNT Sports
Ronnie O'Sullivan hopes Saudi Arabia will be able to produce professional snooker players in future years after the opening of his first snooker academy in Riyadh.
The 41-time ranking event winner secured victory at the first major event staged by Saudi Arabia at the Riyadh World Masters in March.
He is now aiming to strengthen his association with the country in developing the Ronnie O'Sullivan Snooker Academy.
The academy will have five tables, with former British Open champion Nigel Bond taking on the role of head coach, and O'Sullivan set to travel to Riyadh to work with local talent.
"This is a fantastic new facility, and I am excited to be working here alongside the best talent in the Kingdom," said O'Sullivan at an official media launch.
"In snooker, like most sports, there is no substitute for hard work, and this academy will give players an opportunity [to] practice in a great environment.
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"I would love to see tour players and even world champions from Saudi Arabia one day, and it will give me great satisfaction to play a role in their development.
"It’s a pleasure to be working with HE Turki Alalshikh on our shared ambition to bring through new players and grow the sport in the region."
Judd Trump earned a record ÂŁ500,000 first prize with his 10-9 victory over Mark Williams in the final of the inaugural Saudi Arabia Masters in September, the first ranking event staged in the country.
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