Snooker legend Steve Davis has sparked controversy at the Masters tournament by publicly criticising the condition of the tables, suggesting they were not properly level. The six-time world champion's comments came during the opening day's play at Alexandra Palace, which saw reigning champion Shaun Murphy suffer a shock 6-2 defeat to China's Wu Yize.
Davis Spots 'Concerning' Issue During Match
While on punditry duty for the BBC, Davis highlighted what he believed was a significant problem with the table slate. His concerns first emerged during the match between Murphy and the 22-year-old Wu Yize. After a red ball hugged the top cushion closely before dropping into the pocket during a tricky shot, Davis immediately expressed his view.
"It was concerning what happened at the top of the table with that red going in," Davis stated. "The table fitters need to look at that because that is wrong." Fellow commentator Stephen Hendry had noted how easily the ball appeared to run, implying the table was playing generously.
Pundit's Detailed Critique of Playing Conditions
Davis continued his analysis as the session progressed, pointing out another shot in the third frame where a pink ball travelled effortlessly along the cushion. "I don't want to put a downer on everything," he began, "but that pink along the cushion... he knows full well, the table is not effectively level at the top. It's going to hug the top rail."
He elaborated on the potential impact on the game, advising organisers to take action. "If those balls are hugging that top rail, then it's going to make the game incredibly easy to make big breaks. It's also wrong that a ball should go in that easily," Davis argued. He clarified that the issue was distinct from pocket size, focusing squarely on the level of the slate.
Tournament Proceeds Amid Equipment Scrutiny
The discussion over table conditions persisted into the evening session, where Mark Selby was also defeated by China's Xiao Guodong. Despite the focus on equipment, Wu Yize's dominant performance against world number seven Shaun Murphy was a standout result, with the young player quickly establishing a three-frame lead on Sunday afternoon.
The tournament continues at Alexandra Palace, with current world champion Zhao Xintong scheduled to begin his campaign on Monday evening against Gary Wilson. Davis's comments have nevertheless cast a spotlight on the preparation and maintenance of the tables at one of snooker's most prestigious Triple Crown events.
