Snooker: O'Sullivan considers hanging up cue after latest 'frustrating' defeat

(Getty)

Ronnie O'Sullivan has cast fresh doubt over his future after another dismal defeat at the China Open. Since early December, the former world champion has lost in the first round at the UK Championship, Wembley Masters, Welsh Open and now in Beijing. He also withdrew from the German Masters, and has slumped to 10th in the world rankings.

After losing 5-2 to Welshman Ryan Day, three-times Crucible winner O'Sullivan admitted his patience could eventually run out and indicated he may quit if results continue to be poor.

He said: "It's not great, is it? But it is what it is and there's not a lot you can do about it other than just keep trying. I can't really put my finger on it. It's very frustrating. It's not enjoyable. It'll give you a lot of grey hairs playing like that.

"I don't know how much more I can take of playing like that. I've said I would retire before but haven't, so I don't want to look silly. I'm not going to say I'm retiring but you never know, it's not looking good."