A number of snooker players have criticized the tiered format used in many tournaments on the World Snooker Tour (WST) this season. The system, which allows only top-ranked players to enter directly into the main stages of events, has sparked debate among players and officials. The World Championship, the sport’s premier event, has long used a tiered system, with the top 16 players in the rankings automatically qualifying for the Crucible, while 16 others must go through a qualifying process. However, since 2010, most other tournaments used a flat draw system, where all 128 professional players compete in the first round. Recently, with the retirement of WST chairman Barry Hearn, more tournaments have returned to tiered formats, often for commercial reasons. This allows broadcasters and event promoters to showcase top players on television and at major venues. The tiered system has left many players outside the top 16 spending significant time in behind-closed-doors qualifiers at the Mattioli Arena in Leicester. Those who fail to qualify often face long periods of inactivity, sometimes weeks or months, before the main stages of tournaments. This has raised concerns about fairness and the ranking system. Amateur player Peter Devlin, who is aiming to return to the professional circuit, pointed out that a top 16 player can earn more money and ranking points by winning just one match in the main event, compared to a player who had to win three matches to qualify. He described the situation as “crazy” and questioned the logic behind holding main events months after the qualifiers, which he said squashes any momentum. Several top players have voiced their opinions on the issue. Former world champion Shaun Murphy argued that a flat draw system, where all 128 players start at the same stage, is the fairest, but admitted it creates logistical challenges for the WST. Three-time world champion Mark Williams agreed that the flat draw system had its issues, but suggested that a return to it would require reducing the number of players on tour. Gary Wilson, a three-time ranking event winner, said that tiered draws can work for major events but have become excessive in recent years. He argued that the sport has regressed by returning to a format that was common over two decades ago. WPBSA chairman Jason Ferguson acknowledged the concerns and emphasized the need for balance. He said that while tiered draws can offer better venues and structures for the main stages of events, they also create downtime for players outside the top 16. He noted that the WPBSA is reviewing the tournament structure and ranking system to ensure all players stay active throughout the season. Ferguson also mentioned that the ranking system, which currently relies on prize money, is under review, with experts analyzing whether a points-based system would be more equitable. He emphasized that any changes would be based on thorough analysis and the input of players. The goal, he said, is to build a stronger, more inclusive snooker tour for everyone.