The World Snooker Shanghai Masters Wildcard Qualifier opens registration channels from June 28 to July 13. [Photo/Shanghai Observer]

The World Snooker Shanghai Masters Wildcard Qualifier is set to kick off, offering aspiring players the chance to win a coveted spot in the Shanghai Masters tournament. Registration channels for the Wildcard Qualifier will be open from June 28 to July 13, and two talented wildcard players will be awarded the opportunity to compete alongside the snooker elite at the Shanghai Stadium.

Renowned as one of China's most esteemed international sporting spectacles, the Shanghai Masters is scheduled to take place from July 15 to 21, promising a thrilling showcase of skill and precision.

The 2024 Shanghai Masters will take place from July 15 to 21 at the Shanghai Stadium. [Photo/Shanghai Observer]

The Wildcard Qualifier series will unfold through two initial auditions, with the top eight contenders from each round advancing to the subsequent stage. Among the 16 finalists, the two standout winners will earn the honor of participating in the Shanghai Masters tournament.

Scheduled for June 28 to 30 and July 5 to 7, the first and second auditions will pave the way for the climactic final round of qualifiers, which is set to unfold from July 12 to 13. All Wildcard Qualifier competitions are slated to unfold at the CITIC Pacific Plaza, located in Shanghai's bustling Jing'an district.

This year's competition, designed as an invitational event, will adhere to a 24-person competition format. The roster boasts an impressive lineup of top-tier players, including reigning champion Ronnie O'Sullivan, 2024 World Snooker Champion Kyren Wilson, and the current World No 1, Mark Allen. Notably, Chinese snooker luminary Ding Junhui, alongside Zhang Anda and a cohort of promising young players, are also set to grace the tournament with their presence.

Ticket sales for the Shanghai Masters is ongoing. [Photo/Shanghai Observer]

Enthusiasts eager to witness the snooker spectacle firsthand can secure their tickets for the Shanghai Masters, with sales currently in full swing. Fans purchasing the Platinum Single Session Ticket or Platinum Full Package Ticket will even have the exclusive opportunity to meet the legendary Ronnie O'Sullivan in person on July 14.

Sources: Shanghai Observer, jingan.gov.cn