Ali Carter has acknowledged that he can be a divisive figure in snooker, but insists his intense and emotional on-table demeanour stems from how much the sport means to him.
The 47-year-old, known as 'The Captain', has spent 30 years on the professional circuit and claimed his seventh ranking title at the English Open earlier this month, returning to the world's top 16. Despite enjoying strong support, particularly in Brentwood where he lifted the trophy in front of a home crowd, Carter recognises that he is not universally popular.
A rivalry and a reputation
Part of that perception is linked to his rivalry with Ronnie O'Sullivan, which placed him on the wrong side of the Rocket's numerous fans. Carter also accepts that he is not a jovial presence around the table, but believes that is appropriate given what is at stake.
Asked whether criticism and even abuse affects him, Carter told the Talking Snooker podcast: 'Yeah I think so and when you do read comments, I suppose it goes into the subconscious or somewhere.'
'On some level I obviously take in on board. But I can genuinely say that anyone who ever meets me would probably say: "No, he's alright."'
Intensity and perfectionism
Carter feels his match-day persona differs from his character away from the table. 'I think I'm obviously very intense and I show emotion and I set myself really high standards,' he said.
'Obviously I know how good I can be and when I don't produce it for whatever reason I find it very frustrating because I am a perfectionist at whatever I do. That's just my personality trait.'
'But what people don't understand is that snooker has been my life. It shouldn't do, but it defines how you feel as a person, it defines how you can live your life, it defines what house you live in, what car you drive, what holidays you go on, where you sit on the plane, everything.'
Battles beyond the table
Carter's temper can flare during matches, but he is also known for his battling qualities away from the baize, having twice overcome cancer and sustained a long career at the top despite Crohn's disease.
He recalled advice from a former doctor, now deceased: 'I used to say, "If only I could be a bit calmer and a bit more relaxed."'
'He said: "Ali, no, no, no. What you don't realise is the way you are is your biggest strength, because if you aren't that way then you'd never be where you are now."'
'Maybe if I didn't have my attitude and my character I wouldn't have got though my illnesses and battles I've faced. I've won seven ranking events. Of all the snooker players in all the world, it's not too bad is it?'
Only 15 players in history have won more ranking titles than Carter's seven. He will aim for an eighth at next week's Shenzhen Open, where he faces Ding Junhui or Ricky Walden in his opening match.
