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Few events in snooker carry the prestige of The Masters. Staged each January at London’s iconic Alexandra Palace, the tournament is part of the sport’s Triple Crown and brings together the world’s top 16 players.
In January 2026, the elites of the snooker world will battle it out for the Paul Hunter Trophy. Our Masters preview covers everything you need to know, including betting options and odds at Betano Sportsbook.
If you’re new to snooker betting, here’s an introduction to everything you need to know about The Masters:
First held in 1975, The Masters has grown into one of snooker’s most prestigious tournaments and is part of the sport’s Triple Crown, alongside the UK Championship and the World Championship.
Staged every January at London’s iconic Alexandra Palace, The Masters is unique, as it is an invitational event featuring the world’s top sixteen players. This exclusive field ensures that every match is a clash between the very best in the game.
Unlike ranking events, The Masters is all about prestige and legacy. Players compete for the Paul Hunter Trophy, with matches played in a high-pressure format, best of eleven frames through to the semi-finals, and a best of nineteen-frame final across two sessions.
The atmosphere at Ally Pally is unlike any other in snooker, with a passionate crowd, dramatic walk-ons, and some of the sport’s most memorable moments. The event’s mix of elite competition and historic tradition has made it a highlight of the sporting calendar, drawing global audiences year after year.
In the 2026 edition, 16 of the game’s greatest stars will battle it out for their share of over £1,000,000 in prize money and the chance to lift one of snooker’s most iconic trophies.
Since 2012, The Masters has been staged annually at London’s Alexandra Palace, taking place each January in front of packed crowds. The 2026 tournament follows that tradition, running from January 11 to 18, with the iconic venue once again welcoming thousands of snooker fans for one of the sport’s most prestigious events.
The 2026 Masters promises to be one of the most fiercely contested stagings in the tournament’s history. With a world-class field, over £1,000,000 in prize money, and the Paul Hunter Trophy at stake, the stakes have never been higher.
This year’s line-up features the world’s top-ranked players, as determined after the 2025 UK Championship. Unlike most events on the snooker calendar, there are no qualifiers, ensuring that every match is a clash between the absolute best, right from the opening round.
Seeding ensures a balanced draw, with the defending champion and reigning world champion placed at opposite ends of the bracket, while the rest of the field is arranged according to their ranking position.
This guarantees thrilling encounters from the start, while also protecting the top seeds from meeting until later stages.
The Masters retains its traditional format, matches are played as best-of-eleven frames through to the semi-finals, with the final contested over a best-of-nineteen frames across two sessions.
Shorter matches in the early rounds add pressure, leaving little room for error, while the extended final tests stamina, concentration, and composure under the sport’s biggest spectacle.
With history, prestige, and prize money on the line, the 2026 Masters is set to deliver another unforgettable competition in snooker’s most exclusive invitational event.
With the 2026 Masters fast approaching, several names stand out as potential winners to look out for when placing a bet at Betano.
Reigning champion Shaun Murphy, who produced a memorable 147 on his way to victory last year, returns to Alexandra Palace hoping to defend his crown.
Known for his attacking flair and big-break ability, former Masters champion Judd Trump also heads into the tournament in strong form.
Seven-time champion Ronnie O’Sullivan remains a constant danger; his unrivalled experience and proven record at Ally Pally make him one of the most dangerous players in the draw.
Meanwhile, Zhao Xintong could be the dark horse of the competition. At just twenty-eight, he has already shown his talent on the big stage and continues to grow as a contender among snooker’s elite.
The drama of The 2026 Masters is soon upon us. If you’re looking to wager on this edition of the tournament, here are the key betting options available:
You can access competitive odds and extensive markets throughout The Masters at Betano. Register today, check for the latest offers, and deposit funds into your account to bet on the tournament.
We also feature the best snooker live betting selection and many pre-tournament and pre-match snooker betting choices.
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