RONNIE O’SULLIVAN would love to aim a novel 167 break — that’s offered the worth is correct.
The Rocket would be the predominant attraction when the controversial Riyadh Season World Masters of Snooker takes place in March.
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To lift the occasion’s profile, in opposition to a backdrop of sportswashing accusations, a crass 20-point ‘Gold Ball’ can be out there for many who are on a 147 most break.
This tinkering of the foundations has angered the game’s traditionalists — however the world No 1 is extra within the money incentive for compiling such an enormous break.
O’Sullivan mused: “What’s the prize for a 167? Have they introduced it? I’m certain that it will likely be a hefty prize.
“Hear, the Saudis can simply do what they like. They’re a strong outfit.
“Each different sport appears to be doing stuff in Saudi, so it will likely be nice to go on the market.”
Earlier than a well-earned relaxation — he has just about lived out of a suitcase since November — O’Sullivan heads to Barnsley at this time.
After successful Sunday’s World Grand Prix by beating Judd Trump 10-7, the Rocket faces world No 98 Alfie Burden in a qualifier.
The winner books a spot within the World Open first spherical in Yushan, China, in March.
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Then all roads result in the Crucible and O’Sullivan ought to crush everybody in his path on the World Championship beginning in April.
His type has been exemplary — he has not misplaced since November 11 — and he’s clear favorite, no matter what deflection ways he could make use of. That astonishing semi-final dismantling of Ding Junhui is proof that, even at 48, his finest is healthier than the remainder.
On the 6-1 thumping of Ding, O’Sullivan stated: “That was only a one-off. Everybody was getting enthusiastic about it. I stated to my mate, ‘Out of 700 days, I’ve most likely accomplished one or two good performances’.
“It’s good to know it’s nonetheless in there. I generally surprise why I don’t try this extra typically however I nonetheless haven’t modified my stance.
“I’m not taking part in to the extent or consistency. It’s only a bit untidy, to be sincere.
“That’s what stops me from having fun with the sport. I’m having to battle.
“Sheffield is a unique animal. While you’re taking part in the identical opponent over three or 4 periods, you don’t actually get that reset feeling — you simply must plod alongside.
“For the time being there’s not a number of plodding. It’s both actually terrible or actually good.
“To win in Sheffield, other than my win there in 2020, regular will get the job accomplished.
“If I can discover a little bit of steadiness then, yeah, I’ve bought an opportunity.”
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