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Topics: Snooker, Ronnie OSullivan, World Snooker Championship
Nasir Jabbar
Topics: Snooker, Ronnie OSullivan, World Snooker Championship
Ronnie O'Sullivan has revealed the two telling conversations he had that convinced him to take part in the 2025 World Snooker Championship.
O'Sullivan's participation at this year's World Snooker Championship was clouded by uncertainty after he withdrew from a series of big events, including the Masters.
But he ended speculation as he released a statement, with 'The Rocket' setting his sights on a record eighth world title.
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Opening up on his decision to take part in the 2025 World Snooker Championship, O'Sullivan, 49, revealed the two conversations he had that convinced him to participate.
He spoke with Dr Steve Peters, who has been the snooker legend's long-time psychiatrist, and fellow snooker player Barry Hawkins, who spoke to him following their game.
"I wasn’t sure what I was going to do," O’Sullivan said on Friday. "I played Barry Hawkins for a couple of days and on the second day, it was that bad that I quit halfway through the session.
"Barry came down and had a talk to me and said it’s not as bad as you maybe think. I was like, 'Really?' He said, 'It’s just maybe concentration or whatever'."
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O'Sullivan added: "So I held on to that and spoke to Steve Peters and he said, 'Look, don’t think about two years, just try and focus on this tournament and I’ll be there for you'.
"So, I thought OK, I’ve had it from a very good professional who I respect and has good judgement and one from somebody else who knows the psychology, so I held on to those two people and just thought just try and play.
"Barry kind of convinced me that maybe I was being a bit harsh on myself. So, I was like OK. But he gave me a good hiding over the two days, which I expected and probably needed. For me, just getting here was a victory in itself. Getting out there to play will be a victory in itself."
O'Sullivan begins his campaign next Tuesday when he faces rival Ali Carter.
He hasn't won the world title since 2022 when he beat Judd Trump 18-13.
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As mentioned, the seven-time world champion bids to win a record eighth world title.