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Why Ronnie O’Sullivan considers just playing at snooker champs a ‘victory’

Luke Baker at the Crucible Theatre
Seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan has not played competitively since January
Seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan has not played competitively since January (PA Wire)
  • Seven-time world snooker champion Ronnie O’Sullivan has admitted to struggling with his mental health and developing a fear of approaching the snooker table.
  • He expressed concerns about losing his nerve and potentially withdrawing from the World Snooker Championship, despite his first-round match being scheduled for Tuesday.
  • O’Sullivan took a break from the game after snapping his cue in anger in January. He later withdrew from multiple tournaments, including the Masters.
  • He said he considered it “a victory in itself” to even attend the championship.
  • Despite aiming for a record eighth title, O’Sullivan downplayed expectations, saying he hopes to give his opponent, Ali Carter, a good game.
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