New Sponsor announced for Welsh Open Snooker

Hearn took over as World Snooker chairmen in December last year, and helped find a new sponsor for the Masters at Wembley in January.

"It proves we're definitely moving in the right direction," said Hearn.

"Having one of the biggest betting brands in the world sponsor the Welsh Open shows the appeal of snooker."

Hearn added: "We've now got sponsors on board for four of our five UK tournaments and I'm sure that there are more to come."

This year's Welsh Open at the Newport Centre starts on Monday 25 January and runs until the following Sunday.

England's Ali Carter is the reigning champion after he beat Joe Swail 9-5 in last year's final.