Snooker legend Ronnie O'Sullivan has shocked fans by revealing that he is considering quitting the sport due to a dispute over players' time spent in China. The seven-time world champion expressed his frustration with the World Snooker Tour after five players faced potential punishment for choosing to participate in a Macau exhibition event instead of the Northern Ireland Open. Although the controversy was resolved when the Macau event was rescheduled, O'Sullivan remains enraged and could face disciplinary action for his comments.

Money talks

One of the key issues at the heart of the dispute is the lucrative opportunities for players in East Asia. O'Sullivan himself earned a staggering £210,000 for his victory at the Shanghai Masters in September. While snooker's biggest events in terms of prize money are still held in the UK, such as the World Championship (£500,000), UK Championship (£250,000), and the Masters (£250,000), appearances in China provide substantial financial rewards.

A crossroads for O'Sullivan

O'Sullivan expressed his frustration at the lack of opportunities in the UK. He stated, "If I can't go out and do what I need to do – which is play a lot in China – then I won't ever play again." The snooker icon emphasized his love for playing in China, where he enjoys the atmosphere, crowd, and significant prize money. However, if he is no longer able or allowed to participate in Chinese tournaments, he may consider switching to Chinese 8-ball (pool) instead.

O'Sullivan's comments have sent shockwaves through the snooker world, leaving fans and officials wondering about the future of one of the sport's greatest players. Only time will tell if this dispute will lead to O'Sullivan bidding farewell to snooker for good.