Kyren Wilson criticizes tournament treatment as world champion
2024-09-27 11:49- Kyren Wilson expressed frustration over being consistently placed on the less prominent table during tournaments despite being the reigning world champion.
- His recent matches included a loss to Elliot Slessor in the last 16 of the British Open, which was not televised live.
- Wilson's complaints highlight ongoing issues within the sport regarding player visibility and respect for champions.
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Insights
Kyren Wilson, currently ranked No. 2 in the world and the reigning world champion, has publicly criticized the treatment he receives at snooker tournaments. His discontent stems from being frequently assigned to the secondary table, which offers less exposure and fewer viewers compared to the main TV table. This issue came to a head during the British Open in Cheltenham, where Wilson lost to world No. 37 Elliot Slessor in a match that was not broadcast live on television, further aggravating his feelings of disrespect as a champion. Wilson's social media outburst followed a series of matches where he felt his status was undermined. Although he had previously played on the main table in earlier rounds of the tournament, the decision to place him on table two during a crucial match against Slessor was particularly disappointing. He expressed his frustration about being relegated to less favorable conditions, which he believes diminishes the prestige of being a world champion. The broader context of Wilson's complaints reflects ongoing challenges within the sport, where broadcasting decisions often prioritize popular players over current champions. This has led to a perception that the sport does not adequately honor its top competitors, especially those who have recently achieved significant victories. Wilson's situation raises important questions about how snooker manages player visibility and the criteria used to determine which matches are showcased. His comments resonate with many in the sport who feel that the current system may not be serving the best interests of all players, particularly those who have proven themselves at the highest levels.
Contexts
The English Open 2024 is set to kick off on September 16, marking the beginning of the traditional snooker tournament season in the UK. Fans are eagerly anticipating the matches, which will run until September 22, with sessions starting at 10 am, 1 pm, and 7 pm UK time. This year, the tournament promises to showcase some of the finest talents in the sport, including reigning champion Neil Robertson, who recently claimed victory at the English Open, and seasoned players like Kyren Wilson and Mark Selby. Following closely on the heels of the English Open, the British Open 2024 will commence on September 23, running through to September 29. This tournament marks a significant return of elite-level snooker to free-to-air television in the UK, with coverage available on ITV platforms. Fans can expect thrilling matches as Mark Williams defends his title against fierce competition, including the likes of Judd Trump and Mark Allen. The excitement surrounding these tournaments is heightened by the extensive coverage provided by various broadcasters. The BBC holds the rights to major events such as the World Snooker Championship, while ITV and Eurosport cover a range of other tournaments, ensuring that fans have ample opportunity to catch the action live. Streaming options are also available through platforms like Discovery+ and Eurosport Player, catering to viewers who prefer to watch online. As the snooker season unfolds, fans are reminded to check the broadcast schedules regularly, as they can change. With the promise of intense competition and high-stakes matches, the upcoming tournaments are sure to deliver unforgettable moments for snooker enthusiasts around the world.
