**Cue Maker Praises ‘Gentleman’ Ronnie O’Sullivan After Crucible SOS Call**
Ronnie O’Sullivan’s highly publicised cue change in the midst of his World Championship semi-final defeat to Zhao Xintong has highlighted not only the pressures of elite-level snooker but also offered a glimpse behind the scenes, as the local craftsman who answered his desperate call has spoken out about the experience.
O’Sullivan, a seven-time Crucible champion, shared the first eight frames with Zhao before concerns about his equipment prompted him to seek drastic mid-match alterations. With tensions high and stakes even higher, he reached out to Martin Chesworth, owner of Chesworth Cues, based just a short distance from the tournament’s Sheffield venue. The timing of the request – made while Chesworth was having his hair cut – took the experienced cue maker by surprise.
Chesworth, no stranger to the world of professional snooker having previously worked on O’Sullivan’s cues, understood the urgency when the call came. O’Sullivan explained that he wanted the titanium ferrule on his cue replaced with a brass one, a major change for any player, let alone during a semi-final. “He sounded a little anxious,” Chesworth reflected, “but he was very clear about what he wanted.”
Cue care at this level is almost an art form, and Chesworth takes pride in a sympathetic restoration approach. “I don’t just force a ferrule onto a cue and sand it down,” he explained. “We tailor the ferrule to suit the cue itself, aiming to keep it as authentic and undamaged as possible.” After hours, Chesworth stayed back in his workshop to replace both the ferrule and the tip, ensuring the Rocket received precisely the modifications he had requested.
When the work was done, Chesworth personally delivered the altered cue to O’Sullivan’s accommodation. Despite being pressed for time, the pair managed to share a chat and a drink, discussing different cue tips and their many quirks – something O’Sullivan is always keen to debate. “He’s very genuine, easy to get along with, and clearly appreciates good craftsmanship,” Chesworth said. “He even kindly offered me tea, but I could only stop for a quick glass of water due to other commitments.”
O’Sullivan later messaged to say “It’s better,” expressing his gratitude for Chesworth’s efforts. Despite not being closely acquainted, the cuemaker described O’Sullivan as an exemplary customer: appreciative, interested, and always friendly. “You can’t ask for more than that,” he remarked.
Unfortunately for O’Sullivan, the changes did not reverse his fortunes at the table. He slipped to a heavy 17-7 defeat, including a morning session where he lost eight straight frames – sparking debate among fans and pundits about the wisdom of altering his cue at such a pivotal moment. For some, the decision became a talking point about O’Sullivan’s approach under pressure; for others, it was merely evidence of the fierce mental battles snooker’s biggest names endure.
Chesworth himself was drawn into the discussion online, with some criticising his choice to undertake the changes mid-tournament. Echoing the often thankless nature of behind-the-scenes sports support, he commented: “Some people have asked, ‘Why did you do it?’ But what was I supposed to do? If I refused, Ronnie could have gone elsewhere.” Chesworth felt it was a no-win scenario: “Had he won, it would’ve been all about his brilliance. When he loses, people like to blame the ferrule.”
With over three decades spent crafting cues for the game’s stars – including new world champion Zhao Xintong, who trains at a local academy – Chesworth is no stranger to pressure himself. Nevertheless, he maintains his stance: “Any cuemaker would jump at the chance to work on Ronnie O’Sullivan’s cue. It’s an honour, and I hold no regrets.”
O’Sullivan’s inner circle and the broader snooker community continue to dissect what was undoubtedly a bold mid-match gamble. Yet Martin Chesworth’s reflections provide a rare insight into the meticulous world of cue craftsmanship and offer praise for O’Sullivan’s often-overlooked humility and generosity away from the cameras. Whether the technical change was wise may be debated for years to come, but the personal touch behind the Rocket’s Crucible campaign this year will remain a noteworthy chapter in snooker folklore.