Shenzhen Open 2026: How To Watch, Defending Champion & Everything You Need To Know
Shenzhen Makes Its World Ranking Debut
Snooker heads to a brand new venue this autumn as Shenzhen, the bustling metropolis in China's Guangdong Province, hosts a world ranking event for the very first time. The Shenzhen Open runs from 28th September to 4th October 2026, and with a top prize of £177,000 on the table, you can expect the world's elite to be fully switched on from the opening frame.
Mark Williams Returns to Defend His Crown
The man arriving in Shenzhen with a target on his back is Mark Williams. The three-time world champion claimed the title last year in Xi'an, grinding down Shaun Murphy in the final in the manner only Williams can — unhurried, clinical, and utterly infuriating for whoever is sitting in the opposite chair. Williams has always had a quiet affinity for the Chinese leg of the tour, and he'll be motivated to prove that victory was no fluke. Murphy, meanwhile, will fancy his own chances of going one better this time around. Both men are worth keeping an eye on in the outright betting markets as the draw is confirmed.
How To Watch the Shenzhen Open
Whether you're catching every session live or dipping in for the key matches, there are plenty of ways to follow the action depending on where you are in the world. Here's a full breakdown of the broadcast arrangements:
UK & Ireland
Viewers in the United Kingdom and Ireland can watch the Shenzhen Open on TNT Sports and HBO Max. TNT Sports remains the home of snooker for UK fans, so if you've already got a subscription you're good to go. HBO Max provides the streaming option for those who prefer to watch on the move or on a smart device.
Mainland Europe & Selected Countries
Fans across much of mainland Europe can tune in via Eurosport and HBO Max. This coverage extends to a wide range of territories including France, Germany, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, and many more — the full list runs to over 50 countries, so it's worth checking whether your nation is included if you're based on the continent.
China & Asia-Pacific
Given that Shenzhen sits right in the heart of China, the tournament will naturally be huge on home soil. Chinese viewers have a wealth of options, including CCTV5, Huya, Migu, the CBSA-WPBSA Academy WeChat Channel (pay-per-view), CBSA-WPBSA Academy Douyin, and China Now Sports in Hong Kong. Elsewhere in the region, Astro Supersport covers Malaysia, True Sport has Thailand, and Sportcast broadcasts in Taiwan.
All Other Territories — WST Play
If you're based outside of the regions listed above, WST Play is your best bet. The official streaming platform from World Snooker Tour offers live and on-demand coverage across the season, and a subscription also comes with exclusive ticket priority for UK events — a handy bonus for any serious snooker fan. Sign-up details are available directly through the WST website.
Why This Tournament Matters for the Betting Markets
From a punting perspective, new venues always create interesting dynamics. Players who are comfortable travelling and adapting quickly tend to thrive, and the timing of this event — deep into the autumn swing of the tour — means form coming out of September will be a crucial form guide. With ranking points up for grabs and a £177,000 first prize providing serious incentive, the top 16 will be taking this one very seriously indeed.
We'll be publishing our full outright betting preview and daily match tips throughout the Shenzhen Open right here on SnookerWins, so bookmark the site and check back as the draw is confirmed and the odds begin to take shape. As always, shop around across the major bookmakers — Bet365, William Hill, Paddy Power and Sky Bet will all be running markets — and look for the best value rather than simply backing the favourite.
Please gamble responsibly. If you're concerned about your gambling, visit BeGambleAware.org or call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133. Only bet what you can afford to lose.
