The biggest names in snooker will be fighting it out in the superb surroundings of Wembley Arena as the most prestigious invitational event on the calendar gets underway on Sunday - The Masters.
Mark Selby made his major breakthrough by winning the tournament on his debut 12 months ago, and he is back to defend his title against the best players in the game, all of which are desperate to get their hands on the famous trophy.
The top 16 in the world will be taking part, along with two wild card winners, in a unique event in snooker held in one of the best venues possible to stage a tournament.
All of the game's great names have won the Masters during its 33-year history - including Ray Reardon, Alex Higgins, Steve Davis, Stephen Hendry, Mark Williams, John Higgins, Paul Hunter and Ronnie O'Sullivan.
The old Wembley Conference Centre was one of the most revered venues in the game, and the short trip to Wembley Arena has not affected the atmosphere one bit as crowds still flock to the special event.
"It's great to have Masters Snooker back at Wembley Arena for 2009, continuing the relationship between Wembley and this most prestigious of tournaments," said Wembley Arena manager John Drury.
Defending champion Selby will face either Mark King or wild card entry Ricky Walden in the first round proper, the 'Jester from Leicester' hopes to continue his good form this season with a repeat of his career highlight last year.
The mercurial O'Sullivan faces Joe Perry - who himself has been in impressive touch, especially in the Premier League, while Ali Carter players Peter Ebdon.
Last year's beaten finalist Stephen Lee has not made the cut this time around, such is the competition for places at the Masters.
As usual, every match is one of real quality - a point illustrated perfectly with Stephen Hendry playing Neil Robertson in the opening round, along with Stephen Maguire facing fellow Scotsman Graeme Dott.
Source
Mark Selby Masters 2008 Trophy Presentation.
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