Ronnie O'Sullivan's use of traditional triangle chalk has sparked opposition from several top snooker players, with calls for a ban on the equipment growing. The seven-time world champion is one of the few remaining players to use the old-style chalk, which is notorious for leaving marks on the table and balls, causing unpredictable bounces and kicks during matches.
Neil Robertson, the 2010 world champion, has been particularly vocal, describing the chalk as something that should be banned. Speaking after his second-round win at the World Championship, Robertson said: 'I would prefer to play John Higgins so I don't have to contend with the chalk that Ronnie uses, which should be banned from the game. All the players hate it. It just destroys the table.' He added that Shaun Murphy shares his view, calling for the chalk to be 'removed from the face of the Earth.'
John Higgins, who defeated O'Sullivan 13-12 in this year's second round, has also criticised the chalk. He previously told the BBC: 'It's difficult when you play guys like Ronnie and Luca [Brecel], and they're using the Triangle chalk. It's a bit of a nightmare.' Brecel also uses the same type of chalk.
Snooker legends Stephen Hendry and Steve Davis have commented on the controversy. Hendry noted during the match that O'Sullivan's chalk leaves marks on the table and cushions, causing heavy bounces and kicks that affect play. Davis explained that a new chalk has been adopted by nearly all players because it reduces bad contacts, but O'Sullivan has chosen to stick with the old one, possibly for commercial reasons.
The issue has reignited debate about the fairness of using equipment that can significantly impact the game, with opponents arguing that O'Sullivan's chalk puts other players at a disadvantage.
