**Ronnie O’Sullivan Accused of Misleading Fans Over Practice Ahead of World Championship Victories**
Ronnie O’Sullivan, widely regarded as one of snooker’s greatest ever talents, has again come under scrutiny following claims about his unique preparation methods for the World Snooker Championship. A debate was reignited this week as former world champion and BBC commentator John Parrott cast doubt on O’Sullivan’s assertion that he barely practises before major tournaments, urging snooker followers not to take the seven-time champion’s statements at face value.
O’Sullivan, known for his charismatic interviews and candour, surprised both fans and pundits alike in 2020 when he suggested he had hardly spent any time practising prior to capturing his sixth world title at the Crucible Theatre. His comments fuelled discussion throughout the snooker community, especially as he swept through the championship with trademark flair and dominance.
The Rocket, as O’Sullivan is affectionately known, even jested about his pre-match routine during interviews, referencing the classic British sitcom ‘Only Fools and Horses’ instead of intense practice sessions. “I’ve watched a bit of Del Boy and Rodney before my games rather than practising,” he said at the time. He cited playful criticism from his then-fiancée Laila Rouass, who remarked on his penchant for TV marathons, suggesting she saw similarities between himself and the loveable but hapless Rodney Trotter.
Despite these light-hearted admissions, John Parrott questioned just how seriously O’Sullivan’s comments should be taken. Parrott, a respected pundit and world champion in his own right, took to the airwaves to express his scepticism. “Don’t listen to him saying he doesn’t practise,” Parrott insisted, revealing his belief that O’Sullivan puts in considerable effort behind the scenes. “He is in the club grafting like a Trojan, he puts the hours in and he wants to win. You’ll never see anyone like him again.”
Parrott’s comments highlight a broader debate over the methods required to succeed at the pinnacle of snooker. While O’Sullivan’s relaxed manner suggests a nonchalant genius, his results—two further world titles since 2020—highlight a relentless drive and commitment to excellence. Parrott continued to heap praise on O’Sullivan’s abilities, describing his cue ball control as “on another level” and hailing him as “the best player I’ve ever seen”.
The scepticism surrounding O’Sullivan’s approach has been juxtaposed by his results. Despite claiming he had stepped away from professional play for months ahead of major championships, O’Sullivan entered the 2025 World Championship in Sheffield with an air of unpredictability. His participation was only confirmed when he strode onto the baize to face Ali Carter in the opening round, eventually securing a convincing 10-4 victory.
Intriguingly, O’Sullivan has attributed his sustained competitiveness to work with leading psychiatrist Steve Peters, a collaboration he credits for boosting his mindset during crucial matches. Speaking after his first-round victory, O’Sullivan remarked, “I’m surprised I’m here but I’m here. I don’t have any expectations. I’d just like to not feel all at sea out there. If I can just play and at least feel semi-competitive, I’d be happy with that.”
With O’Sullivan now approaching 50 years old, he remains humble about his chances against a new generation of hungry, ambitious players, even as he stands just one title away from surpassing Stephen Hendry’s all-time record. “Could I win the whole thing? I doubt it. I’m nearly 50 now and there’s a lot of young guys who are hungry and competing all the time. It’s a bit different to say 2012, 2013.”
Whether O’Sullivan’s claims about lack of practice are taken at face value or with a pinch of salt, there is little dispute regarding his status in the game. As the discussions continue, fans are left to marvel at an enigma who, regardless of preparation, continues to deliver moments of brilliance on snooker’s grandest stage. Whatever the truth behind his training regime, O’Sullivan remains as compelling away from the table as he is with cue in hand.