TAKE MY CUE
Ronnie O’Sullivan says ‘I would retire’ if snooker chiefs introduce darts feature that divides opinion among fans
RONNIE O'SULLIVAN has warned he will retire immediately if snooker introduced darts-style walk-ons.
The snooker legend is still enjoying playing although he believes he is no longer the best player in the world, suggesting Judd Trump claims that mantle.
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However he would be ready to quit the sport if certain changes were made, with O'Sullivan opposed to "jazzing up" snooker.
He is particularly against the idea of snooker introducing personalised walk-ons with music, as is the case in darts.
O'Sullivan, 48, told : "I'd probably definitely retire if I had to do something like that.
"I'd be like 'you know what I'm out of here now'."
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The question of how snooker can appeal to younger viewers has been around for several years, with former world champion Luca Brecel suggesting a modern dress code and shorter matches could prove beneficial.
O'Sullivan explained there is interest from young people in places like China and Saudi Arabia, although could not pinpoint why.
He has praised tournaments in those countries and believes they could be suited to hosting the World Snooker Championship - which is traditionally staged at The Crucible in Sheffield.
The seven-time world champion said: "If it makes sense, we play some tournaments in China and Saudi Arabia and the players loved it. They got treated well and looked after well.
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"It can move about - I don't see no reason why it shouldn't. I'm a snooker player and as a player you want to feel like you get taken care of when you're at tournaments.
"Is it a nice environment? Are you enjoying the event? The playing side of it, you've got to play everywhere you go so it's the other little bits.
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"When we go abroad they do make a bit more of an effort with the event, with the players, they make it easier.
"The Crucible is a great venue, it's been fantastic over the years. So wherever they take it I'm sure they'll do a good job."
Inside Ronnie's colourful career
FROM his lightning breaks to blasts at officials, Ronnie O'Sullivan has fired snooker into the spotlight.
The seven-time world champion makes almost as big an impact away from the table as on it.
O'Sullivan has three children - two daughters and a son.
And the Rocket's on-off relationship with British actress Laila Rouass has also hit the headlines.
He has opened up on battles with his weight and addiction.
While the controversial cueist reckons he wasted NINE YEARS of his career by partying too hard.
Despite being worth £14million, O'Sullivan is renowned for his love of canal boats and snubbing flashy cars.
His rivalry with fellow star Judd Trump has been branded 'snooker's greatest feud'.
And Ali Carter had his nose knocked out of joint by the Rocket in their infamous 'Snotgate' row.
Check out all our latest Ronnie O'Sullivan articles.
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