Snooker legend Ronnie O’Sullivan has made a significant announcement regarding his retirement plans following what he described as ‘seven years of misery’ in his illustrious career. The seven-time world champion opened up about his struggles in finding joy in the sport, revealing that he has not felt the same level of enjoyment since 2018, despite winning two world titles post that period.
O’Sullivan recently made headlines for an unusual outburst during a match at the Championship League in Leicester, where he broke his cue in frustration. This incident, coupled with his ongoing dissatisfaction with his performance, has led to speculation that he might skip the upcoming World Championship for the first time in over three decades.
In a candid interview with MailOnline, the 49-year-old expressed his reluctance to quit snooker immediately but acknowledged that he would give himself a two-year window to rekindle his passion for the game. He emphasised the importance of ending his career on a positive note, stating, “I’d like to go out with a smile on my face.”
Reflecting on the toll that snooker has taken on him over the years, O’Sullivan admitted that the sport had started to erode his happiness and that it had been a ‘torturous’ journey. Despite facing challenges that have worn him down, he remains determined not to give up prematurely, indicating that he intends to persevere until he is certain the sport is no longer a good fit for him.
The snooker legend elaborated on the internal struggles he has faced, highlighting the mental and emotional hardships that have accumulated over the years. He admitted to feeling ‘damaged goods’ as a player and expressed his desire to rediscover the joy and form he once possessed during the peak of his career.
With his decision on whether to participate in the upcoming World Championship looming, O’Sullivan’s fans and the snooker community eagerly await his next move. As one of the sport’s most iconic figures, his potential retirement would mark the end of an era in snooker history and undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the game moving forward.
In conclusion, Ronnie O’Sullivan’s candid revelations about his retirement plans shed light on the challenges faced by even the most accomplished athletes. His journey serves as a reminder of the mental and emotional toll that elite sports can take on individuals, showcasing the importance of self-reflection and perseverance in the face of adversity. As the snooker world awaits his final decision, O’Sullivan’s legacy as a true icon of the sport remains undisputed, regardless of the path he chooses to take in the coming years.