Snooker world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan believes he can compete at the Crucible theatre for another decade as he seeks to win the title a record eighth time in the future.
O’Sullivan moved level with Stephen Hendry for the most world titles in the modern era with seven as he defeated Judd Trump 18-13 on Monday. The 46-year-old has become the oldest world champion in history, eclipsing the record set by Ray Reardon who was 45 when he won his sixth title.
On Monday afternoon, Trump won six of eight frames to make the score 14-11 before O’Sullivan sealed his famous win and the £500,000 prize as he took four of the evening’s first six frames. The 'Rocket' shared an emotional embrace with his opponent at the end of the match before greeting his children, who ran into the arena to share his historic moment.
Despite the fact that it is more than seven months away, O’Sullivan is already down to 4-1 among bookmakers to win the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award for the first time. Steve Davis won the gong in 1988 while Hendry finished second behind England international footballer Paul Gascoigne in 1990.
O’Sullivan has been snubbed down the years and was shortlisted for the 2020 award but missed out on the top three despite winning his sixth world title. The World No. 1 admitted he does not care about accolades like the iconic BBC award.
“I won’t ever get that one. I don’t know why,” O’Sullivan revealed. “I don’t think I’ll be in the hunt. I don’t think so.
“It’s not one I want to win. I’m not bothered about awards, trophies or accolades.
“I just want to enjoy my life, be happy and have some peace. We’re not here forever so it’s about being content. These 17 days tested my contentment and my peace so I’m pleased it’s over.”
O'Sullivan's famous win will undoubtedly add more fuel to the debate regarding the greatest snooker player of all time. The 39-time ranking title winner holds almost every major record in the sport and will finish the season atop the world rankings.
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O’Sullivan suggested he will chase further success in the sport due to his love of the game. He said: “I could probably play to my mid-50s if I wanted to.
“Tournaments like this one, the worlds, will probably be a bit of a strain at that age. I could probably pitch up and win one or two matches in my mid-50s maybe, but I’d have no chance of winning it.
“All the other tournaments, yeah. Why not? I enjoy being on the circuit, I enjoy being on the road. I don’t need the money. If I’m enjoying it and having fun with it then I’ll play as long as I want to play.”
