Snooker icon Ronnie O'Sullivan has delivered a startling verdict on the current state of the game, remarkably placing himself in the 'third tier' of elite players. The seven-time world champion included reigning world champion Zhao Xintong in the same bracket, despite the Chinese star's recent triumph in Riyadh.
O'Sullivan's Tiered Snooker Assessment
Ahead of his UK Championship last-32 match against China's Zhou Yuelong on Tuesday, 'The Rocket' outlined his view that no single player currently dominates snooker. Speaking to The Sun, O'Sullivan stated the overall standard is now so high that having one standout figure is unlikely. He proceeded to categorise the world's best into distinct levels.
Judd Trump and Kyren Wilson lead O'Sullivan's rankings, described as "probably the best two players in the world." He suggested Neil Robertson and Mark Selby could also belong in this top group due to strong recent seasons. The second tier, according to O'Sullivan, contains seasoned campaigners like Mark Williams, John Higgins, and the in-form Shaun Murphy.
Where O'Sullivan and Zhao Xintong Fit In
Most notably, O'Sullivan assigned himself to the third tier. "And then you've got your third tier, which would probably be me, Barry Hawkins, Ding Junhui," he said. When later reminded of Zhao Xintong's omission from his initial list, O'Sullivan added the world champion to this group.
This assessment comes despite Zhao's 6-1 victory over Zehuang Long on Monday at the UK Championship and his win over Robertson in the Riyadh final just days prior. O'Sullivan acknowledged Zhao's talent but argued consistency is key. "He hasn't done it enough, consistently," O'Sullivan explained. "I think Zhao needs to have a good two, three years consistently performing at the highest level for that to happen."
Context and Upcoming Challenge
O'Sullivan's self-deprecating analysis precedes his crucial return to the table in York. He is aiming to avoid a third consecutive defeat after recent losses to Jack Lisowski in China and a 4-0 whitewash by Shaun Murphy in Riyadh. His focus now shifts to his opening match in one of snooker's Triple Crown events.
The snooker legend concluded that while clear tiers exist, the margins are fine. "There's not a lot in it. You know, it's just on the day maybe," he said, highlighting the unpredictable and competitive nature of the modern tour. This frank tier system from one of the sport's all-time greats is sure to spark debate among fans and pundits alike as the UK Championship gets underway.
