Will Ronnie O’Sullivan Play in the 2025 World Championship?

As the 2025 World Snooker Championship rapidly approaches, two of the sport's biggest stars have weighed in on the potential participation of seven-time world champion Ronnie O'Sullivan. Both reigning champion Kyren Wilson and four-time winner John Higgins expressed their hope that the Rocket will compete at the Crucible despite his troubled season.

O'Sullivan, known for his mercurial talent and enigmatic personality, has endured a challenging year, withdrawing from numerous tournaments due to medical reasons. His last competitive appearance saw him break his cue in frustration at the Championship League in January. As fans and fellow players eagerly await his decision, O'Sullivan has stated that he will leave it until the last possible moment to determine whether he will vie for a record-extending 33rd Crucible appearance.

Kyren Wilson, the current world champion, emphasized the positive impact O'Sullivan's presence has on the sport. "Whenever Ronnie plays in an event, it certainly boosts ticket sales, it boosts viewing figures," Wilson noted. He also expressed his personal enjoyment in competing against the snooker legend, adding, "Fingers crossed, he's there."

John Higgins, a member of the illustrious 'Class of 92' alongside O'Sullivan, echoed Wilson's sentiments. The four-time world champion wished O'Sullivan well and stressed the tournament's significance with the Rocket's participation. "Of course, the tournament wouldn't be the same if Ronnie doesn't turn up," Higgins admitted. "Hopefully, he's looking after himself and it would be great if he's there."

While O'Sullivan's absence would undoubtedly impact the tournament's dynamics, Higgins acknowledged the added glamour and excitement the Rocket brings to any event he enters. Recent sightings of O'Sullivan practicing with a new cue in Saudi Arabia have provided a glimmer of hope for his fans.

Breaking his silence on the matter, O'Sullivan revealed to TNT Sports his uncertainty about competing at the World Championship. "I don't know yet. I haven't made my mind up, I'll probably make a decision on maybe the 17th or 18th of April," he stated. The snooker icon expressed his desire to play but emphasized the importance of having the confidence to do so.

Reflecting on his struggles over the past few years, O'Sullivan admitted to having fleeting moments of optimism amidst a largely challenging period. "I've tried to play my way through. I've had moments and glimpses where I thought, 'OK, this is OK,'" he shared. "But on the whole, probably three-and-a-half years out of the last four have been pretty terrible for me and that's kind of took its toll. I kind of got a bit tired. It kind of ground me down to the point where I kind of lost the love for the game."

As the snooker world eagerly anticipates O'Sullivan's decision, the overwhelming sentiment from his peers is one of support and hope for his return to the sport's grandest stage. The 2025 World Snooker Championship, set to commence on April 19, promises to be a thrilling spectacle with or without the Rocket's presence. However, there is no denying that Ronnie O'Sullivan's participation would elevate the tournament to new heights, captivating fans and adding an extra layer of excitement to an already prestigious event.

Key Takeaways:

• Ronnie O'Sullivan's potential participation in the 2025 World Snooker Championship remains uncertain due to his troubled season and recent withdrawals from tournaments.
• Reigning champion Kyren Wilson and four-time winner John Higgins have expressed their hope that O'Sullivan will compete, acknowledging the positive impact his presence has on the sport.
• O'Sullivan has stated that he will make a decision on his participation closer to the tournament's start date, emphasizing the importance of having the confidence to play.
• The snooker legend has struggled with his form and motivation over the past few years, admitting to losing his love for the game at times.
• Regardless of O'Sullivan's decision, the 2025 World Snooker Championship promises to be an exciting event, though his presence would undoubtedly elevate the tournament's profile and add an extra layer of excitement for fans and fellow competitors alike.