The 2026 Players Championship gets under way this week as the world’s top 16 players on the one-year ranking list descend on the Telford International Centre for one of the most prestigious events outside the Triple Crown.
Running from February 17–22, the tournament is the second leg of the season’s Players Series and features only the most consistent performers of the campaign so far. With £150,000 on offer to the winner and crucial ranking points at stake, the margins are thin — and every match promises quality.
For full tournament coverage and daily updates, visit the TodaySportsNews.co.uk homepage and follow the latest developments in our dedicated Snooker section.
What Is the Players Championship?
The Players Championship is an elite-ranking event featuring only the top 16 players from the current one-year ranking list. Unlike open tournaments, there are no qualifiers — every competitor has earned their place through results this season.
Matches up to the semi-finals are played over the best of 11 frames, with the final contested over the best of 19 frames.
This format often produces high-quality encounters from the very first session, as there are no early mismatches — only proven winners.
Players Championship 2026 Draw
Top Half
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Neil Robertson vs John Higgins
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Judd Trump vs Zhou Yuelong
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Mark Selby vs Jack Lisowski
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Mark Allen vs Barry Hawkins
Bottom Half
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Ronnie O’Sullivan vs Ali Carter
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Shaun Murphy vs Ding Junhui
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Luca Brecel vs Mark Williams
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Kyren Wilson vs Gary Wilson
The draw has already produced several headline ties, including multiple former world champions facing off in the opening round.
Blockbuster First-Round Clashes
One of the standout ties sees Neil Robertson face four-time world champion John Higgins — a meeting between two of the game’s most accomplished match players. Judd Trump, who has been among the most consistent performers this season, opens against Zhou Yuelong in what could prove a dangerous test.
Elsewhere, Ronnie O’Sullivan’s return to Telford has drawn huge attention, particularly with Ali Carter standing in his path. Their rivalry has often delivered drama on the big stage.
The depth of the field means there are no straightforward matches. With best-of-11 encounters, fast starters could prove decisive in determining who progresses to the quarter-finals.
What’s at Stake?
Beyond the £150,000 winner’s cheque, this event plays a significant role in shaping qualification for the season-ending Tour Championship, which features only the top eight players on the one-year list.
Momentum is also key with the World Championship edging closer. Strong performances in Telford could provide a psychological boost heading into Sheffield later in the spring.
Tournament Details at a Glance
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📍 Venue: Telford International Centre
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📅 Dates: February 17–22, 2026
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👥 Field: Top 16 (one-year ranking list)
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🏆 Winner’s Prize: £150,000
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🎱 Format: Best of 11 (Final best of 19)
Why This Week Matters
The Players Championship often acts as a litmus test for form before the business end of the season. With only elite players involved, every round feels like a semi-final.
Expect high breaks, tactical battles, and potentially defining moments in the race toward the Crucible.
Stay up to date with breaking news, match reports, and expert analysis throughout the week on the TodaySportsNews.co.uk homepage, and don’t miss any cue action in our dedicated snooker news hub.
More updates to follow as the tournament unfolds.
