2024 Masters tips: Judd Trump and Ronnie O’Sullivan lead the way ahead of Alexandra Palace epic
- Seb Sternik
- 4 January 2024
One of the most prestigious snooker events on the calendar is upon us as 16 players battle for the Masters crown.
Less than a week on from the extravaganza that was the PDC World Darts Championship, London’s Alexandra Palace will now host another major sporting spectacle.
The Masters will celebrate its 50th anniversary as the world’s best players make their way to the English capital.
2024 Masters outright odds
(Odds provided by Planet Sport Bet, correct at the time of writing)
Defending champion Judd Trump leads the market as he targets his third win at the event.
The 34-year-old has enjoyed a good season, winning three ranking events so far. Trump claimed the English, Wuhan and Northern Ireland Open.
He also reached the final of November’s Champion of Champions tournament where he ultimately lost 10-3 against Mark Allen.
Snooker icon Ronnie O’Sullivan is the joint-favourite for the Masters – an event he has won a record seven times.
The 48-year-old has withdrawn from more tournaments than he has competed in this season, yet he cannot be dismissed when it comes to these major events.
The Rocket has already won the Shanghai Masters and the UK Championship this season. He also made the semi-finals of the International Championship.
While Trump kicks off his campaign against Kyren Wilson, O’Sullivan will square off against China’s Ding Junhui.
Another man to watch is Mark Selby. The two-time Masters champion begins his campaign against Robert Milkins as he sets his sights on his first major crown this season.
Selby’s last big final took place in October as he missed out on the British Open title to Welsh superstar Mark Williams.
Looking at some of the outsiders for the Masters, Mark Allen offers good value at 12/1.
The Northern Irish man has been dealt a tough draw as he prepares to take on John Higgins in the very first round.
Nevertheless, the 37-year-old heads to London in good form, winning two of the last four events on the World Snooker Tour – the Champion of Champions and Snooker Shoot Out.
Suggested bets
Nap – Judd Trump 4/1
Dark horse – Mark Allen 12/1
