New annual snooker championship to be held in Sheffield

World Seniors Snooker Championship

The ROKiT World Seniors Snooker Championship is coming to the Crucible Theatre as part of a new partnership with Sheffield City Council to give the city a second major snooker event each year.

Legends such as Stephen Hendry and Jimmy White join a field of 20 players from 16 countries who will battle it out over four days to see who will lift the World Seniors Championship trophy.

Also for the very first time, within their four-day stay, a session will be dedicated to showcase the talents of the World Women’s Snooker (WWS) Tour and the World Disability Billiards and Snooker (WDBS) Tour. 

Jason Ferguson, Chairman of the WPBSA, said: “It’s great news to place the World Seniors Championship in the venue where our legends created their legacy. 

“Being able to use the event to also showcase the talents of the women’s and the disability tours sends an important message for our sport and also opens up the dream of playing in the Crucible Theatre for everyone.” 

The event takes place from 15-18 August at the Crucible Theatre Sheffield, home of the annual World Snooker Championship since 1977.

Terry Griffiths in action at the Crucible Theatre in 1979

Paul Billington, Director of Culture and Environment at SCC, said: “We’re delighted to bring a second major snooker event to Sheffield, the true home of the sport. Many of the legends who will take part in the ROKiT World Seniors Championship made their name in our iconic Crucible Theatre, where this new tournament will also take place. 

“As well as the chance to watch legends from the men’s game, this event showcases women’s and disability snooker at the highest level opening up the game to a whole new audience. 

“We look forward to welcoming snooker’s elite and many visiting fans to Sheffield for what promises to be a thrilling showdown.” 

Steve Davis wins World Snooker Championship in 1981

The competition will see 20 of snooker’s best-loved personalities play over 12 sessions across four days.

Tickets go on sale for all 12 sessions on Thursday 18 April.

Tickets to the women’s and disability sessions can be purchased for just £1.47 with any full price World Seniors ticket.

Tickets will also be available for a VIP meet experience with senior players, that will be held on the final day.

All tickets will be available through Sheffield Theatres.