Riyadh, October 15, 2024 – The CEO of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA), Eng. Faisal Bafarat, officially inaugurated the world’s first Ronnie O'Sullivan Snooker Academy in Boulevard City yesterday. The academy, named after world snooker champion Ronnie O'Sullivan, is the first of its kind globally and represents a significant milestone for snooker enthusiasts in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Ronnie O'Sullivan himself, along with Dr. Nasser Al-Shammari, President of the Saudi Billiards and Snooker Federation. The academy is designed to provide an extensive platform for aspiring snooker players, offering training opportunities and the chance to participate in both local and international tournaments.
The establishment of this academy aligns with the broader objectives of Riyadh Season, which aims to cultivate a new generation of snooker players capable of competing on the global stage. By nurturing local talent, the academy aspires to have Saudi players represent the Kingdom in prestigious events, thereby enhancing Saudi Arabia’s presence in the world of snooker.
This initiative is part of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to diversify its entertainment sector and promote sports in line with the goals of Vision 2030. The academy is expected to attract significant interest from both amateur and professional players, helping to further develop the sport of snooker in the region.