Ronnie O'Sullivan retirement plan becomes clear after announcement on Saudi snooker

Ronnie O’Sullivan has signed a three-year ambassadorial deal with the World Snooker Tour and Riyadh Season, ending speculation he could soon retire.

The Rocket, 48, is one of the all-time greats having won an astounding 23 Triple Crown titles during his illustrious career. O’Sullivan has also won seven world titles and there had been talk in some quarters that he could choose to call it a day if he were to land a record eighth title at the World Snooker Championship, which kicks off this week.

However, O’Sullivan now looks set to continue in the sport for some time after agreeing to sign up as an ambassador for Riyadh Season, who have become an official partner for snooker’s most prestigious tournament.

Reacting to the news, O’Sullivan, who will spend time mentoring aspiring talent in the Middle East as part of the agreement, said: “Playing in Riyadh last month was an amazing experience, I love the atmosphere and the enthusiasm of the fans.

“We can make snooker huge in Saudi Arabia. So I am excited by this chance to work to grow the sport there and the opportunity to coach the best young talent and pass on my experience.

“I’m also relishing the chance to play in more big events in the Kingdom, and to work alongside HE Turki Alalshikh on his ambitions.”

O’Sullivan will feature in every WST event in Saudi after agreeing terms with His Excellency Turki Alalshikh. He was triumphant in last month’s inaugural Riyadh Season World Masters, beating Luca Brecel in the final 5-2.

Join the debate! What do you make of O’Sullivan’s new plans? Let us know here.

England’s Ronnie O’Sullivan speaks with members of the media, sitting with the trophy after his victory over England’s Judd Trump in the World Championship Snooker final at The Crucible in Sheffield, England on May 2, 2022

In an interview with The Sun shared earlier this week, O’Sullivan attempted to play down speculation that he could quit Snooker off the back of another Crucible win, outlining he would like to hang up his cue after a period of sustained form.

He said: “The only one I haven’t got is eight world titles, It’d be nice to win it. Would it complete my life? Nah. I’m trying to separate life from work. But it would be nice, I’m not going to lie.

“When I have had 2-3 months where I have been playing great, then that would be the time when I’ll hang my cue up. Would I hang my cue up now? I wouldn’t. Because I don’t feel like I have been in a good place with it. Now definitely wouldn’t be the time.”

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