BARRY HEARN sent an ominous warning about the future of the World Snooker Championship at the Crucible.
China’s Zhao Xintong became Asia’s first world champion on Monday.
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He beat Mark Williams 18-12 to get his hands on the famous trophy in Sheffield.
But Matchroom chief and snooker promoter Hearn continues to insist the tournament could end up leaving the iconic theatre.
Asked if snooker’s biggest tournament will stay put, Hearn told Radio Snooker with Nick Metcalfe: “I hope so but we’ve got to live in the real world.
“So much of professional sport is about money.
“And as much as we want to stay here desperately, it’s got to be something that fits into the overall picture of where the game is going.
“This is a huge game.
“We mustn’t be parochial in our attitude.
“As long as everyone understands that and comes to the party in a reasonable and respectful way, I’m hopeful we can stay here.
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“We must know by the end of the year.
“The clock is ticking.”
The Snooker World Championship started in 1927 but has been played at the Crucible since 1977.
The 50-year deal lasts until 2027.
But Hearn has made no secret of his ambition to take it elsewhere if there are no significant improvements made to the 980-seater venue – because it is currently “not fit for purpose”.
His close business ties to Saudi Arabia could make the Middle East an option while Xintong’s popularity could make China a potential destination.
Further talks with Sheffield Council are expected in the coming months to try and find a solution to extend snooker’s star at its “spiritual home”.
Hearn earlier stated: “I want a bit more respect. We love Sheffield. We love the Crucible.
“In any relationship if the other side doesn’t love you back, it’s destined for failure.
“So, at the moment we’re engaged and I’m hoping in the next few months we’re going to get married again. Let’s keep our fingers crossed.
“Both sides are really happy here with each other, but we can’t turn away from the realities of sports life, which is centred around prize money.
“We have to do something big for the players because they deserve it. This event’s going to be seen by 300-400 million people. Does it get the respect?
“This is a major event in England. But there’s a huge amount of money outside of the UK to stage the World Snooker Championship.”
Xintong picked up £500,000 in prize money for wrapping up victory on Monday.
But Hearn will be keen to get the winning cheque up to match the £1million for the darts world champion.
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