Snooker World Championship 2026 Prize Money: Here's how much Wu Yize and Shaun Murphy will earn if they win or lose - and the trophy they hope to lift
Both finalists’ bank balances will be seriously boosted thanks to their success on the baize over the last two weeks.
First held in 1927, the World Snooker Championship is the longest-running and most prestigious tournament in professional snooker, with a prize fund of nearly £2.4 million.
Last year saw Zhao Xintong crowned the king of the snooker world after defeating three-time champion Mark Williams 18–12 in the final.
This year’s tournament got underway on Saturday, April 18, and has now reached the final stage.
Veteran Shaun Murphy is looking to add a second title to the one he won back in 2005, while his opponent Wu Yize is looking for a maiden trophy having never won a match at the Crucible prior to this year.
At the half way point Yise was seemingly in control - leading 10-7 in the best-of-35-frame match - but anything could happen today (Monday, May 4).
Prize money in snooker has soared in recent years, thanks to rocketing interest in China and lucrative television deals.
It means that there is a jaw-dropping amount of cash available in Sheffield.
Here’s what you need to know.
What’s the prize money at the 2026 World Snooker Championship?
A total of £2.395 million in money is up for grabs at the World Snooker Championship, with the money allocated as follows:
- Winner: £500,000
- Runner-up: £200,000
- Semi-finalists: £100,000
- Quarter-finalists: £50,000
- Last 16: £30,000
- Last 32: £20,000
- Last 48: £15,000
- Last 80: £10,000
- Last 112: £5,000
- Highest break: £15,000
So Wu Yize and Shaun Murphy are already guaranteed a £200,000 payday, with the winner effectively earning an extra £300,000. No shortage of motivation then!
What trophy is presented at the World Snooker Championship - and what’s the figure on top?
The instantly-recognisable World Championship trophy dates back to 1926 when it was bought by pioneering player Joe David for just £19.
It’s made of silver, weighs 46.5 troy ounces, and is topped by the figure of a Greek shepherdess - not a snooker player, as some people presume.
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