Ronnie O’Sullivan has expressed his commitment to working hard on his game for the next 12 months in order to prolong his career at the top level. Despite recent wins in the UK Championship and Masters, the world No. 1 has been dissatisfied with his game and has enlisted the help of Sports Psychiatrist Steve Peters to assist him in preparing for the World Championship and beyond. O’Sullivan discussed his plans to work closely with Peters and expressed his desire to improve his game and feel more comfortable at the table.
O’Sullivan admitted to struggling with his performance and feeling unsatisfied with his game, noting that he has given himself a year to work with Peters in hopes of reaching a level where he feels satisfied with his playing. He mentioned the challenges he has been facing, including what he refers to as “the yips” or “the snatches,” and emphasized his determination to improve his game or consider alternatives such as retirement or transitioning to exhibition matches in the future. Despite these challenges, he highlighted his enjoyment of the lifestyle that snooker has afforded him, including traveling, meeting new people, and engaging with fans and sponsors.
While contemplating the possibility of retirement if he feels he is not playing well enough for an extended period, O’Sullivan emphasized that he would only step away from the sport if he deemed it necessary. He recognized the importance of enjoying the playing aspect of snooker and noted the difficulties he has faced in finding that joy amidst his recent struggles. The 48-year-old snooker legend expressed his desire to win and enjoy the game simultaneously, highlighting the importance of mental strength and psychological support in his quest to improve his performance.
Despite his current dissatisfaction with his game, O’Sullivan remains optimistic about his future prospects and the potential to win his eighth world title. He emphasized the importance of enjoying the playing experience and maintaining a youthful mindset while on the table, regardless of his age. O’Sullivan believes that as long as he continues to feel agile and competitive on the snooker circuit, age will not be a limiting factor in his pursuit of success. He emphasized the importance of mental resilience and a positive mindset in navigating the challenges of professional snooker, indicating his readiness to tackle the upcoming World Championship with determination and focus.
As O’Sullivan prepares for the World Championship and the challenges ahead, he acknowledged the importance of mental fortitude and a strong support system in his pursuit of success. He expressed his commitment to working with Peters and focusing on improving his game in order to reach a level where he feels satisfied and competitive. Despite uncertainties about his future in the sport, O’Sullivan remains dedicated to pursuing his passion for snooker and maximizing his potential on the table. With the support of his team and a renewed focus on mental well-being, O’Sullivan aims to overcome his current challenges and continue making his mark on the world of snooker for years to come.
