Ronnie O’Sullivan Discusses Mental Health Before World Championship

Snooker Legend Ronnie O'Sullivan Opens Up About Mental Health Struggles Ahead of World Championship

Ronnie O'Sullivan, widely regarded as one of the greatest snooker players of all time, has provided an update on his mental state as the 2025 World Snooker Championship approaches. The seven-time world champion has been notably absent from several tournaments this year, leading to speculation about his participation in the sport's most prestigious event.

In a recent interview with TNT Sports, O'Sullivan candidly discussed his struggles with inconsistent form and the toll it has taken on his mental well-being. The 49-year-old admitted that his performance issues have left him "scared to practice" at times, highlighting the immense pressure that comes with being a top-level athlete.

Despite these challenges, O'Sullivan expressed a cautiously optimistic outlook, stating, "I feel alright, I feel okay." While he refrained from confirming or denying his participation in the upcoming World Championship, the snooker icon emphasized the importance of patience and building momentum when returning to competitive play.

Throughout his illustrious career, O'Sullivan has amassed an impressive seven World Championship titles, cementing his status as a legend of the sport. His last triumph at the Crucible came in 2022, showcasing his enduring talent and competitive spirit.

As fans eagerly await news of O'Sullivan's decision regarding the World Snooker Championship, the snooker community remains hopeful that the Rocket will grace the tournament with his presence once more. The event, set to commence on April 19 and conclude on May 5, would undoubtedly benefit from the participation of one of the sport's most iconic figures.

Beyond the world of snooker, O'Sullivan expressed admiration for athletes in other disciplines, citing Luke Littler (darts), Jakob Ingebrigtsen (running), Usain Bolt (sprinting), and Novak Djokovic (tennis) as some of the stars he enjoys watching. The Rocket also revealed his passion for motorsports, particularly Formula One and touring cars, as well as his appreciation for boxing and the emerging talents in tennis, such as Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.

As the snooker world holds its breath, hoping for the return of one of its most beloved and talented players, Ronnie O'Sullivan's openness about his mental health struggles serves as a reminder of the immense pressures faced by elite athletes. Regardless of his decision concerning the World Snooker Championship, O'Sullivan's legacy as a true sporting great remains secure, and his influence on the sport will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.

Key Takeaways:

• Ronnie O'Sullivan has been grappling with mental health issues and inconsistent form, leading to uncertainty about his participation in the 2025 World Snooker Championship.
• The seven-time world champion expressed cautious optimism about his current state, emphasizing the importance of patience and building momentum when returning to competitive play.
• O'Sullivan's potential absence from the World Championship would be felt by fans and the snooker community, given his status as one of the sport's most iconic figures.
• The Rocket's admiration extends beyond snooker, with a keen interest in athletes from various disciplines, including darts, running, sprinting, tennis, and motorsports.