Masters 2026 Draw: Murphy vs Wu Yize and Trump vs Ding Junhui
The 2026 Masters at Alexandra Palace features defending champion Shaun Murphy against Wu Yize, world No. 1 Judd Trump vs Ding Junhui, and other top matches as the elite 16 compete January 11–18.
Defending champion Shaun Murphy begins his Masters title defence with a tough test against rising star Wu Yize at Alexandra Palace. The 2026 Masters brings together snooker's top 16 players for a week of high-stakes matches.
Key ties to watch
World number one Judd Trump faces Ding Junhui in a rematch of this week's UK Championship quarter-final, a match Trump won 6-2. The clash sets the tone for the early rounds as both players aim to reach the later stages.
Another highlight concerns the potential second-round tie between Mark Selby or Ronnie O'Sullivan and Xiao Guodong or Neil Robertson, depending on the outcome of the UK Championship final on Sunday.
The event runs from January 11 to 18, with the field limited to the top 16 in the world rankings.
Robertson, a two-time Masters champion, meets either O'Sullivan, winner of the title eight times, or Mark Selby, a three-time winner, in what is billed as the standout match of the round.
The draw also features intriguing clashes between left-handed rivals Mark Williams and Mark Allen, as well as John Higgins against Barry Hawkins.
Masters first-round draw
- Shaun Murphy v Wu Yize
- Mark Selby / Ronnie O'Sullivan v Xiao Guodong
- Neil Robertson v Mark Selby / Ronnie O'Sullivan
- Kyren Wilson v Si Jiahui
- Judd Trump v Ding Junhui
- Mark Williams v Mark Allen
- John Higgins v Barry Hawkins
- Zhao Xintong v Gary Wilson
Expert comment
Expert view: The draw blends defending champions with rising talents, promising several early shocks and a potential path to the final for the top seeds. Momentum and confidence will be decisive as players navigate high-pressure first rounds.
Summary
The 2026 Masters at Alexandra Palace features a top-16 field with Murphy starting against Wu Yize and Trump facing Ding Junhui. The schedule runs January 11-18, with marquee ties including Robertson against either O'Sullivan or Selby and Williams against Allen. The event promises drama, with several left-handed clashes and a chance for new stars to shine.
Key takeaway: The early rounds of the Masters 2026 draw are packed with potential rematches and breakout performances, setting the stage for a thrilling tournament. BBC Sport