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BBC faces backlash from snooker fans over ‘unwatchable’ Masters coverage

January 12, 2026
1 min read
BBC faces backlash from snooker fans over 'unwatchable' Masters coverage

Fans express frustration over BBC’s Masters coverage

Snooker enthusiasts have voiced their fury at the BBC’s broadcast of the Masters, with viewers insisting the corporation must alter its camera positioning at Alexandra Palace, reports BritPanorama.

The prestigious tournament, featuring the sport’s elite competitors, has been marred by complaints about how the table appears on screen. Fans watching from home have expressed dismay that the baize looks distorted, with many taking to social media to demand urgent adjustments to the coverage.

The outcry centres on the main overhead shot, which viewers claim makes the rectangular playing surface appear warped and difficult to watch properly. Social media has been flooded with frustrated messages from supporters demanding action. One viewer questioned what was happening with the television angle, urging producers to rectify the issue.

Further criticism poured in, with one fan declaring the camera positioning “awful,” while another insisted somebody needed to address the problem at the venue without delay. The camera angle is not the sole source of discontent at Ally Pally, however. Six-time world champion Steve Davis has raised concerns about the playing surface itself, suggesting this imbalance has led to some improbable pots during matches.

Davis highlighted one particularly unusual incident where a red ball struck the cushion twice before finding the pocket. “It was concerning what happened at the top of the table, with that red going in,” Davis remarked. “That’s wrong.” His criticism adds weight to the growing list of grievances surrounding this year’s tournament.

The tournament has already delivered a major upset, with defending champion Shaun Murphy suffering a comprehensive 6-2 defeat to Wu Yize in the opening round. Murphy admitted he was stunned by his early exit from the competition he had been eagerly anticipating since lifting the trophy twelve months ago. “I’ve been looking forward to today for a year walking out as the champion. I enjoyed the first ten minutes,” the Englishman said.

As the tournament progresses, the spotlight remains firmly on the BBC’s coverage and the playing conditions, with viewers keenly observing any changes as the drama unfolds.

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