Wikipedia - 2022 Masters (snooker)
The 2022 Masters (officially the 2022 Cazoo Masters) was a professional non-ranking snooker tournament that took place from 9 to 16 January 2022 at Alexandra Palace in London, England. It was the 48th staging of the Masters tournament, which was first held in 1975, and the second of three Triple Crown events in the 2021–22 snooker season, following the 2021 UK Championship and preceding the 2022 World Snooker Championship. Broadcast by the BBC and Eurosport in Europe, it was sponsored for the first time by car retailer Cazoo.
The participants were invited to the tournament based on the world rankings as they stood after the UK Championship. Some players took issue with the cut-off date, noting that the in-form Luca Brecel, who had entered the top 16 by winning the 2021 Scottish Open in December, did not qualify as the event took place after the UK Championship. Ding Junhui, who had made 15 consecutive Masters appearances between 2007 and 2021, fell out of the top 16 after the UK Championship and failed to qualify. Zhao Xintong, who entered the top 16 for the first time by winning the UK Championship, was the only Masters debutant. John Higgins set a new record of 28 Masters appearances, surpassing Jimmy White and Steve Davis, both of whom had competed 27 times.
Yan Bingtao was the defending champion, having defeated Higgins 10–8 in the previous year's final. However, Yan lost 4–6 to Mark Williams in the first round. Neil Robertson defeated Barry Hawkins 10–4 in the final to win his second Masters title and his sixth Triple Crown title. He became the tenth player to win the Masters more than once. There were 26 century breaks, with the highest being a 139 made by Stuart Bingham in his first-round loss to Kyren Wilson.
Taking place in a state-of-the-art venue, the tournament offers a captivating atmosphere for both players and spectators alike. The Masters 2022 promises to showcase the very best in snooker, with thrilling matches and intense competition that will keep fans on the edge of their seats.
Featuring a select group of 16 elite players, including reigning champion and previous winners, the tournament guarantees a high level of expertise and talent. Each player will battle it out in a series of matches, employing their exceptional cue ball control, tactical prowess, and break-building abilities to outwit their opponents.
The Masters 2022 offers a unique format, with a single-elimination knockout stage, ensuring that every match is a do-or-die situation. The pressure is high, and the stakes are even higher as players vie for the coveted title and a substantial prize pool.
Fans can expect to witness breathtaking shots, nail-biting comebacks, and moments of sheer brilliance as the players navigate the intricacies of the snooker table. From long pots to delicate positional play, every shot will be executed with precision and finesse, leaving spectators in awe of the players' mastery of the game.
With its rich history and tradition, "The Masters" has become synonymous with excellence in snooker. The tournament not only showcases the skills of the world's best players but also serves as a platform for the sport's future stars to make their mark on the global stage.
Whether you are a die-hard snooker fan or a casual observer, "The Masters 2022" promises to deliver an unforgettable experience. Prepare to be captivated by the intensity, drama, and sheer brilliance of the world's finest snooker players as they compete for glory in this prestigious tournament.