Mark Allen produced another display of grit and artistry to claim the **English Open title** on Sunday night, but instead of basking solely in glory, the Northern Irishman used his moment in the spotlight to aim criticism at snooker’s decision-makers.
Allen, who edged out Judd Trump in a thrilling 9–7 final in Brentwood, pocketed the winner’s cheque of **£100,000**. While that figure looks impressive in isolation, the 38-year-old was quick to highlight what he sees as a deeper financial imbalance within the sport.
“I’m obviously delighted with the win,” Allen said, cradling the Steve Davis Trophy. “But £100k for a Home Nations event in today’s world isn’t enough. You look at other sports with far less global reach and the rewards are multiples of this. The players here are the product, and without us, there’s no show. It feels like the authorities are asking us to be grateful for scraps.”
Allen’s comments reflect a growing frustration among snooker’s elite. While the sport still commands loyal television audiences in the UK, China, and parts of Europe, the financial picture has not matched that popularity. Prize funds have stagnated or in some cases declined since the pandemic, and players have been increasingly vocal about their dissatisfaction.
For Allen, who has now won multiple ranking titles in successive seasons and remains firmly in the world’s top five, the issue is both personal and professional. He has long been an advocate for better pay structures, especially for players lower down the rankings who struggle to break even after travel and expenses.
“It’s not just about the top guys,” Allen stressed. “If you’re ranked 50 in the world, you’re probably making less than someone with a regular 9-to-5 job. That’s not sustainable if we want young talent to come through. The prize money at the top sets the tone for the whole tour. £100k for this title in 2025? It should be at least double.”
His victory over Trump, itself a gripping affair filled with long tactical exchanges and audacious pots, was a reminder of why snooker still captivates audiences. Yet the financial backdrop continues to overshadow such performances. Trump, too, has previously voiced concerns about the economics of the tour, joining the likes of Ronnie O’Sullivan and Neil Robertson in calling for reform.
World Snooker Tour officials were quick to defend the current structure, pointing to sponsorship challenges and market fluctuations. A spokesperson noted that prize money “has been carefully allocated to maintain a balanced and competitive global calendar.” Still, Allen’s outburst will add pressure on organisers ahead of the forthcoming UK Championship and Masters, two events where players believe the sport’s commercial appeal is undervalued.
For now, Allen can savour his 12th ranking title, one that further cements his reputation as one of the sport’s most reliable big-match performers. Yet his victory speech may prove as significant as any break he compiled across the week. It was a reminder that beneath the calm exterior of the baize, a storm is brewing over how snooker rewards its stars.
