Snooker Legend Ronnie O’Sullivan Reveals Pursuit of “Impossible” & Future Plans
LONDON – Seven-time World Snooker Champion Ronnie O’Sullivan has revealed the driving force behind his legendary career: a fascination with manipulating the physics of the game to achieve the seemingly impossible.In a recent interview, O’Sullivan described his approach as an attempt to “overcome physics and turn it off,” emphasizing the constant learning and curiosity required to reach the highest levels of the sport.
“I have to manipulate the ball to make it do what it’s supposed to do. That’s the fascination,” O’Sullivan explained. “I have to overcome physics and turn it off.I enjoy creating the impossible. The great athletes work towards it and always remain curious, constantly wanting to learn more. This is the only way to get to the highest level.”
When asked about the greatest player in snooker history, O’Sullivan deferred, stating, “I don’t think any athlete should call themselves the greatest of all time, even if they are. Everyone else should decide that.” He rather credited Stephen Hendry for having “the greatest impact on the status of snooker.”
O’Sullivan also addressed his future in the sport, admitting the past three years had been challenging. However, a recent return to enjoyment at tournaments in China and Saudi Arabia has rekindled his passion. ”The past three years have not been fun for me…But recently the fun has returned again,” he said. While less focused on winning or rankings, he emphasized the importance of enjoyment, stating he has “plenty of other things I want to do,” including spending more time with his family and potentially exploring ventures like Chinese eight-ball pool or business opportunities. He hopes to continue playing for another three to five years, but will retire if the joy is lost.
Beyond the baize, O’Sullivan has also authored three crime novels and remains open to writing more after his snooker career concludes.
Looking to the future of the sport, O’Sullivan expressed enthusiasm for initiatives like “Snooker 900,” a faster-paced variant with 15-minute matches, and its dedicated channel on Pluto TV. He believes these platforms are crucial for attracting a new generation of players, notably by showcasing junior, amateur, women’s, and handicapped snooker. “I hope that one day I’ll turn on Snooker and say: I used to watch it as a boy on Snooker 900, or that woman started there on Pluto TV,” he stated.
