**Mark Williams Voices Frustration Over ‘Class of ’92’ Comparisons with Ronnie O’Sullivan**
Mark Williams, one of snooker’s enduring stars from Wales, has made headlines by candidly expressing his frustration at being constantly grouped together with Ronnie O’Sullivan and John Higgins under the well-known ‘Class of ’92’ label. Fresh from a dramatic quarter-final victory over John Higgins at the World Snooker Championship, Williams has spoken out about his discomfort with the continued comparisons to his celebrated peers.
The tense quarter-final showdown between Williams and Higgins at the Crucible Theatre ended in remarkable fashion, as Williams edged past his Scottish rival 13-12, securing his spot in the semi-finals. He now faces Judd Trump, while Ronnie O’Sullivan will compete against Zhao Xintong in the other semi-final. The excitement around these matchups, however, has not overshadowed Williams’ growing frustration with the frequently used ‘Class of ’92’ narrative.
In a post-match interview, Williams was open about his feelings concerning the ongoing groupings of himself, O’Sullivan, and Higgins. The moniker, borrowed from football’s Manchester United and tennis’s ‘Big Three’, is intended to celebrate the trio’s collective impact on the sport. Yet, Williams feels that it paints an inaccurate picture of their respective achievements.
“I’ve never really liked it,” Williams admitted, speaking to SportsBoom and reported by the Mirror. “I’ve always said that those two, they’re the two best players in the world—ever. Ronnie, by far, is the best, and John the second-best player ever in my opinion, and I’ve always said that.”
Williams, now 50 and a three-time world champion himself, was clear in acknowledging the gulf in statistics between himself and his famed contemporaries, particularly O’Sullivan. Among the trio, they boast an extraordinary haul of accolades: 100 ranking titles, 39 Triple Crown triumphs, and 14 world championships. O’Sullivan’s record alone is staggering, with seven world titles, 41 ranking trophies, and 23 Triple Crown wins.
At the heart of Williams’ complaint is a sense that the relentless comparison fails to reflect the true scale of O’Sullivan’s dominance in the sport. “I don’t really like being classed with them because I think they’re much higher than me,” Williams continued. “Ronnie’s probably the one who should be upset with the ‘Class of ‘92’, because he’s so far in front of me and John. He probably gets sick of being grouped in the same class, since he’s really in his own class.”
O’Sullivan’s enduring success places him atop several of snooker’s all-time lists, surpassing even icons like Stephen Hendry when it comes to world championships and ranking achievements. His ability to command the game, even after a recent break, has only solidified his legendary status.
Despite Williams’ remarks, the ‘Class of ’92’ remains a cherished narrative for many snooker fans, who relish the enduring rivalry and excellence among three of the sport’s stalwarts. The trio’s battles over nearly three decades have provided snooker with some of its greatest moments.
Williams concluded by acknowledging the popular appeal of the trio’s association, even if he personally struggles with it. “People like mentioning the class of ’92, and I can’t get away from it.”
As the World Snooker Championship continues, Williams’ words provide a thoughtful counterpoint to the usual celebratory tone surrounding the three icons. His honesty highlights not just the greatness of snooker’s modern era, but also the very human desire for individuality amid collective glory.
Regardless of individual preferences, the achievements of Williams, O’Sullivan, and Higgins have undoubtedly shaped the landscape of modern snooker. As the current championship unfolds, their legacies—together and apart—remain firmly under the spotlight.