Judd Trump has advised Ronnie O'Sullivan to remain absent from snooker until he feels mentally ready to compete, claiming the seven-time world champion is now more beatable than ever. O'Sullivan has skipped multiple tournaments this season, including the Players Championship and the Welsh Open, which marks the 10th UK event he has either withdrawn from or declined to enter.
Trump, speaking to SportsBoom, said O'Sullivan's absence does not affect fellow competitors and encouraged him to return only when willing to put in the effort. 'He's an amazing player, but the way he's been playing recently, it's been quite poor. I think it's better for him to take that time out and come back when he is willing to put the work in,' Trump stated.
The world number one contrasted O'Sullivan's approach with that of John Higgins, who he believes has greater mental fortitude and consistency due to his willingness to practice. Trump noted that O'Sullivan, now 50, is less sharp with age and diminished play, making him vulnerable against opponents who previously would have crumbled in his presence.
Trump also highlighted O'Sullivan's ongoing equipment issues, suggesting he has not found a suitable cue since switching from his old one. 'The mistakes he makes, he never made with his old cue,' Trump added, while acknowledging that O'Sullivan remains capable of producing extraordinary performances in the future.
