Ronnie O’Sullivan: A snooker profile
Ronnie O’Sullivan is not nicknamed The Rocket for nothing. Winning the World Snooker Championship title four times – in 2001, 2004, 2008 and 2012 – he has become best known for his speed and natural flair for the game. In May 2012 he was also named World Snooker Player Of The Year and inducted into the Hall Of Fame alongside Walter Donaldson, Mark Williams and John Higgins.
At the age of 17, a year after turning professional, Ronnie became the youngest ever winner of a ranking tournament when he beat Stephen Hendry in the 1993 UK Championship final. Two years later, he won against John Higgins to claim his first Masters title; then another two years on, in 1997, he broke a world record for the fastest maximum break with a time of 5 minutes and 20 seconds.
More recently, Ronnie has triumphed in the 2012 German Masters, while other famous previous victories include the British Open in 1994, the European Open in 2003 and the Masters in 2005. He also came out on top in the Grand Prix of 2004, which earned his 16th title in that field. In total, Ronnie has won 24 ranking events and currently stands at number nine worldwide. During 2012 and 2013 is competing as part of the Main Tour; internationally recognised as the premier snooker tour.
Ronnie’s playing style is fast and furious, despite a tactical approach. Industry experts have noted that once in the lead he tends to go from strength to strength; whereas when behind he becomes discouraged and it can affect the quality of his game.
- End of season rankings and money list revealed
- O'Sullivan secures sensational victory
- World Championship quarter finals get underway
- Former champions fall as O'Sullivan wins
- World Snooker Championship draw
- World championship seedings announced
- Dominant Ding wins PTC Grand Final
- Rocket returns for World Championship
- Maguire secures Welsh Open title
- Carter wins German Masters