Ronnie O'Sullivan has made feelings clear on controversial 'Golden Ball' gimmick in $1m Saudi tournament

Ronnie O’Sullivan has already made his feelings clear on the controversial ‘Golden Ball’ which is set to be featured at the Riyadh Season World Masters of Snooker.

The tournament, which is set to get underway on Monday will feature the likes of O’Sullivan, Luca Brecel, Judd Trump, Mark Allen, Mark Selby, Shaun Murphy, Mark Williams and Ali Carter.

Just hours ahead of the opening contest, a late change to the rules meant Ding Junhui and John Higgins have also been included.

One of the main talking points ahead of the tournament was the addition of the ‘Golden Ball’, which is officially known as the Riyadh Season ball.

The extra ball will be made available for any player who manages a 147 maximum break.

An extra 20 points will be on offer with the ‘Golden Ball’, taking the maximum break to 167.

Speaking back in January, O’Sullivan was asked about the new feature.

He said: “What's the prize for a 167? Have they announced it? I'm sure that it will be a hefty prize.

“Listen, the Saudis can just do what they like. They are a powerful outfit. Every other sport seems to be doing stuff in Saudi, so it will be great to go out there.”

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Meanwhile, Carter said, as reported by the Daily Star: “The gold ball? It's just, whatever.

“I mean if someone makes a 167, it would be a miracle, wouldn't it? But if anyone can do it, then Ronnie O'Sullivan can. We will wait and see.”

A statement from the World Snooker Tour said: “Each game will be played under World Snooker rules and regulations but with the introduction of an innovative new concept, a 23rd ball known as the Riyadh Season ball.

“This gold ball will be worth 20 points and can only be potted once all other balls have been successfully cleared from the table if a player is on a maximum break to make it 167.”

The tournament is set to begin on Monday afternoon at 2pm.