At snooker’s Q School in Leicester, former world No. 2 Tony Knowles suffered a narrow 4-3 defeat to Scotland’s Jack Borwick on the opening day while three-time women’s world champion Ng On Yee secured a 4-2 win over Latvian hopeful Rodion Judin to reach the second round. On Yee was boosted by a 60 break in the second frame and went on to win the final three frames to set up a meeting with Josh Mulholland. Borwick made a 51 break in the second frame to lead 2-0, but Knowles fought back to take the next three frames and lead 3-2, ultimately losing in a nervy decider on the final pink. Knowles will have another chance to qualify at the upcoming event two beginning on Monday.
Knowles will need to win six matches at the city’s Mattioli Arena during the best-of-seven frame encounters happening between May 21 and May 26. He reached the last 32 of Q School in 2021 before losing to Mark Lloyd. Other players looking to regain their tour cards at Q School this week include 1995 world semi-finalist Andy Hicks, former Crucible qualifiers James Cahill and Mark Joyce, and two-time ranking event quarter-finalist Liam Highfield. Overall, four tour cards will be handed out before qualifying event two begins on May 27 and provides another opportunity for players to secure a spot on the tour.
In addition to the events in Leicester, there are also two Asia and Oceania qualifying events taking place in Bangkok. These events will offer four more tour cards to players looking to compete on the professional snooker circuit. Fans can catch all the action live on discovery+, the Eurosport app, and eurosport.com, providing opportunities to follow the progress of their favorite players and witness the intense competition as players strive to earn their place on the tour. Snooker enthusiasts will have plenty of exciting matches to enjoy as the Q School events progress and tour cards are awarded to the deserving players.
The competitive atmosphere at the Q School events in Leicester and Bangkok is palpable as players battle it out for their chance to secure a tour card and continue their professional snooker careers. Each frame is crucial, with players showcasing their skills and determination to come out on top and advance to the next round. Whether it’s former world champions like Ng On Yee or seasoned players looking to regain their tour cards, the Q School provides a platform for talented individuals to showcase their abilities and compete at the highest level of snooker. With so much at stake, the pressure is on as players vie for their shot at joining the elite ranks of professional snooker players.
For players like Tony Knowles who faced a narrow defeat on the opening day, there is still hope for redemption at the upcoming events in Leicester. With multiple opportunities to qualify for the professional tour, players have a chance to learn from their mistakes, regroup, and come back stronger in their pursuit of a tour card. The grueling nature of the Q School events tests players both mentally and physically, but those who can withstand the pressure and perform at their best will have a chance to fulfill their dreams of competing at the highest level of snooker and showcasing their talent on the international stage. As the competition heats up and players continue to battle for their place on the tour, fans can expect to see exciting matches and dramatic moments unfold as the Q School events progress towards the ultimate goal of earning a tour card and securing a spot among the elite in the world of snooker.
