Snooker is structured around frames and matches, with results usually determined by the number of frames won rather than total points scored.
Match formats vary depending on the tournament, stage of competition, and broadcasting requirements.
Understanding how frames and matches are organised helps explain why match lengths differ across events and why players must adapt their approach to different formats.
What is a frame?
A frame is a single unit of play in snooker.
A frame begins with the break-off shot and ends when:
- All balls are potted and a lead is established
- One player concedes
- The points remaining are insufficient for the trailing player to catch up
The player with the higher score at the end of the frame is awarded the frame.
What is a match?
A match consists of a series of frames played between two players.
Matches are usually contested over a fixed number of frames, with the winner being the first player to reach the required number of frame wins.
This structure is commonly described as a “best-of” format.
Best-of formats
Most professional snooker matches use a best-of format.
Examples include:
- Best of 7 frames, first to 4
- Best of 11 frames, first to 6
- Best of 19 frames, first to 10
The match ends as soon as one player reaches the required number of frames.
Match length by tournament stage
Match lengths often increase as a tournament progresses.
Common patterns include:
- Short formats in early rounds
- Longer matches in quarter-finals and semi-finals
- The longest formats reserved for finals
This progression is used to test consistency and endurance at later stages.
Session-based matches
Some matches are split across multiple sessions.
In these cases:
- Frames are played over two or more sessions
- Sessions may be held on different days
- Players resume from the previous session score
Session-based formats are typically used in major events with long match lengths.
Differences across competitions
Not all tournaments follow the same format.
Variations may include:
- Short-format events with rapid progression
- Invitational tournaments with fixed match lengths
- Special formats designed for television scheduling
Despite these differences, the basic frame and match structure remains consistent.
Frames, matches, and scoring
Frame results determine match outcomes.
- Individual breaks contribute to winning frames
- Frames won determine the match winner
- Total points across a match are not used to decide results
This makes frame management and tactical play important in longer formats.
Common misunderstandings
Matches are decided by total points scored
Matches are decided by frames won, not cumulative points.
All tournaments use the same match length
Match formats vary by event and stage.
A match must be completed in one session
Some matches are split across multiple sessions, especially in longer formats.