Ronnie O’Sullivan plans to take two months off competitive snooker after winning his eighth Masters title. He became the oldest player to win the tournament at 48-years-old, beating Ali Carter 10-7 at Alexandra Palace. O’Sullivan is also the oldest and youngest player to win the Masters, having won the UK Championship in York. His success and frequent exhibition tournaments are catching up with him.
O’Sullivan, who had a strong push from September-December, admits to feeling a bit played-out. He viewed the first four months as the main part of his season, performing better than expected. However, he acknowledges the challenge of maintaining motivation. The World Snooker Tour calendar continues until May, but O’Sullivan plans to take time off.
The Rocket will play in the World Grand Prix in Leicester, but plans to take a two-month break from tournaments. He plans to play next week due to the 32-player field and will swerve all other tournaments. He believes he wants a break from the competition.
O’Sullivan is excited to start playing more exhibitions in snooker, as they are enjoyable and provide a break from intense games. He plans to rest and consolidate before the exhibitions, as he has a busy schedule in March, May, June, and July. Despite winning the Shanghai Masters and winning the UK, O’Sullivan has had an amazing season. If he takes a two-month break after the World Grand Prix, he will miss the Wuhan Open, German Masters, Welsh Open, and Players Championship.
Rocket has the chance to win all three Triple Crown tournaments in the same season for the first time in his career. He is not ruling it out, but needs to build confidence to fancy his chances at the Crucible. He always has a good idea around February and March whether his game is in good enough shape to win the Worlds. He could still win it, but wants to go there with a bit of confidence. He is trying to squeeze everything out to get a result, but is a competitor and will keep fighting.
