The second European Tour event of the season marks a return for snooker to the Netherlands. It’s only taken 22 years.
The only other Dutch event to carry ranking points was the 1991 European Open, in which Tony Jones beat Mark Johnston-Allen 9-7 in the final. This was one of three events in which Johnston-Allen beat Stephen Hendry (5-0 at that).
It was played in Rotterdam, as this weekend’s tournament will be. The official poster included a shot of Jan Verhaas, a referee but also a Dutch legend, more recognisable than many of the players.
There have been a few withdrawals: Ali Carter is undergoing treatment for testicular cancer. Jimmy White has had an operation on his foot. Neil Robertson, I assume, has remained in Australia to spend time with his family (EDIT: he has a virus). Barry Hawkins is ill.
Among the big names vying for the title are Judd Trump, Mark Selby, Shaun Murphy, John Higgins, Mark Williams and Stephen Maguire.
For players lower down the list the tournament represents another chance to gain prize money, ranking points and build confidence.
The level of interest locally remains to be seen. Snooker is not necessarily a sport that is going to flourish in Europe in the middle of July when there are so many other competing attractions.
However, the Dutch snooker community have been waiting a long time for the game to return and for those who love the game this is a great chance to see it up close.
Eurosport’s coverage starts on Eurosport2 at 8.30am UK time.
7 comments:
Withdrawal from Fu as well, good new for Pinches though. All the best tomorrow.
is osullivan entering Dave?
Tournament play bears no resemblance to anything which this PTCS season can invigorate.
Disappointing that each players cares only for the points, money & prestige.
If a player acts badly at these events there should be a penalty despite it being a mickeys mouse event.
I didn't see any of the matches today but I'm sure a man on the bus spoke of a transgression by a player this morning.
He mentioned someone banging his cue into the floor and the ferrule fell off into a glass of water.
Disgraceful if true.
calm down 11:26 and save your angry for important things
All the photos are showing great crowds.
Where indeed was that blessed cue ball going and how can he miss that ball.
Must've been a kick or just careless.
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