Professional snooker player Shaun Murphy has unleashed a furious criticism of tournament organisers Matchroom, describing his treatment regarding the Champion of Champions event as 'nothing short of despicable'.
The Source of the Fury
The dispute erupted after Murphy was thrust into the opening match of the Champion of Champions tournament on Monday, where he suffered a 4-1 defeat to China's Lei Peifan. The 43-year-old, known as 'The Magician', revealed he only discovered he was scheduled to play first while he was still travelling back from the International Championship in China, where he had competed in the quarter-finals just four days prior.
Murphy expressed his anger during an interview with ITV4, stating he found out about his 1pm Monday fixture at breakfast on the very day of the match. 'I conduct myself as professionally as I possibly can,' Murphy said. 'I think the way I've been treated by Matchroom in this tournament is nothing short of despicable.'
Murphy's Heated Accusations
Murphy highlighted what he perceived as gross unfairness, pointing out that three other players in the tournament—Mark Williams, Mark Allen, and Alfie Burden—had not been competing in China the previous week and were scheduled to play later in the week. He accused Matchroom of hand-picking the draw and groups, leading to his unfavourable placement.
'To find out that I was playing today, halfway through a 36-hour marathon journey home from China, just 48 hours ago... I think they've covered themselves in a huge embarrassment by treating me with such disrespect,' he fumed. Murphy, who has worked with Matchroom for three decades, expressed his shock at the 'extremely unprofessional' formatting and poor communication.
Matchroom's Official Response
In response to the public criticism, Matchroom issued a formal statement acknowledging Murphy's frustrations. 'We spoke with Shaun after his match and completely understand his frustrations,' the statement read.
The organisers defended the scheduling process, explaining that group placements are based on seeding for transparency and fairness. They conceded that scheduling is a challenge each year but pledged to take the feedback on board. 'Our priorities are the players and we take pride in the fact they consider this event prestigious,' the statement continued, promising to 'always strive to improve for next year and the future'.
Meanwhile, on the same opening day, World No. 1 Judd Trump secured a 4-1 victory over Bai Yulu, advancing to face the victorious Lei Peifan later that evening. The tournament continues with a packed schedule featuring other top players.
