Welsh Open 2009 - Official Launch
World Snooker officially launched the 2009 Welsh Open in the city of Newport today, and Welsh hero, Matthew Stevens was on hand to take on all-comers at the newly refurbished indoor market.
Global-snooker caught up with him to get his thoughts on the event, his chances and the state of the game in general.
GS - The Welsh Open is one of the longest running on the professional calendar, now in its 18th year. Apart from a couple of Mark Williams wins, the local crowd haven't had much to cheer about have they?
MS - I think Darren (Morgan) reached the final of the very first one, but that was way before my time!!! I don't know why that is, all the players tend to treat one event the same as another with no special preparation. It is strange that the Welsh boys struggle here, I guess there could be added pressure playing in front of a home crowd.
I know I haven't even got close in it.
GS - How about this year? Fancy your chances?
MS - I feel like I am playing OK, and getting to the final in Bahrain has proved I can still compete. I think the decision to hold the Welsh players qualifying matches at Newport Centre, like they do for the Chinese players when we go there, will help. I am happier playing here than in qualifying conditions.
GS - Nobody has dominated the Welsh Open, with nine different winners over the years. Hendry has the most wins with three and Ronnie has 'only' won it twice - any reason for that?
MS - I dont think so. It has thrown up some strange results in the past. It used to be staged a lot earlier in the year, so maybe players were affected by the Christmas break? I dont know, there are a lot of good players around and it can be tough.
GS - What did you make of Ronnie's comments at the Masters, about Simon Cowell bring the X-Factor into snooker?
MS - I only saw a little bit of it. I won't be singing if they do try and do that!!! I don't think Ronnie would have put much thought into what he said, and I am sure the press made more of it.
I can see where Ronnie is coming from in some ways but although I think the darts looks good on TV, snooker needs to find its own things that appeal to audiences.
GS - You must have played about 30 frames today, does Newport have any talent that might provide a future Welsh winner of the Welsh Open?
MS - Based on today, I would have to say No!
GS - Cheers Matt, play well and we'll be watching your results with interest!
