Why Ronnie O'Sullivan refuses to wear white shirts like most snooker players

Snooker legend Ronnie O'Sullivan likes to do things his own way whether people like it or not.

And in recent times, 'Rocket' decided to go against tradition by stopping wearing white shirts.

Typically players would wear smart attire which includes a long-sleeved white shirt with a black waistcoat.

It dates back to the 1700s as the sport was said to have been played by the British aristocracy but rules have been relaxed by in some competitions, with plenty of players advocates for more casual clothing.

Seven-time world champion O'Sullivan hasn't wore a white shirt for a long time now and the 48-year-old explained why in a chat with Stephen Hendry.

He said: "I sweat. I'm quite a sweaty sort of person so a lot of my cotton shirts would get ringing wet because if I'm not fit enough I perspire quite a bit.

"Then I found these black shirts which basically absorb everything so I thought, 'I'll just wear them then'."

O'Sullivan became the oldest UK championship winner in York at the weekend and wore a black shirt in his 10-7 victory over Ding Junhui.

As well as a different shirt, O'Sullivan prefers wearing trainers when playing as opposed to smart shoes because of difficulties with his heel.

“I’ve got plantar fasciitis which is, the easiest way to explain it is, it’s like a bruise on your heel,” O’Sullivan told Eurosport in November.

“So when you put your foot down, it’s really sore. Leather-soled shoes just absolutely batter my feet to pieces. So I've had to resort to getting some really big old soles on them, just to sort of give my foot a rest, basically."

O'Sullivan has admitted to having a problem with germs and has tissues on door handles.

In addition, he tends to fist bump opponents and referees rather than do a traditional handshake.

Featured Image Credit: Getty

Topics: Ronnie O’Sullivan, Snooker

Josh Lawless

Josh is a sports journalist who specialises in football and wrestling. He has been published by Curzon Ashton FC, Late Tackle, Manchester City FC, The Mirror, Read Man City and Manchester Evening News. He provides coverage of professional wrestling and has interviewed some of the biggest names in the field - including the first UK interview with The Hardy Boyz after their return to WWE. He has never sported a pair of Lonsdale Slip-ons, contrary to reports.

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