Barry Hearn has come to the defense of Ronnie O’Sullivan after the snooker legend withdrew from The Masters tournament, urging other players to elevate their game in his absence.
O’Sullivan, an eight-time Masters champion, made the decision to pull out of the prestigious event just before its commencement due to health reasons. While he has skipped several competitions in the past year, his participation in the London tournament was anticipated.
Disputing claims that O’Sullivan is solely driven by money, Hearn emphasized that the burden is now on other players to captivate audiences when the 50-year-old maestro is not playing.
“I believe it’s unfair to suggest that Ronnie is primarily motivated by money,” remarked Hearn during an interview on the BBC’s Framed podcast. “Ronnie operates on his terms, setting exceptionally high standards. He is a unique talent, possibly unmatched in our generation. Although someone may emerge to surpass him, for now, he plays at his discretion, a privilege he has rightfully earned.”
Acknowledging the disappointment felt by fans when O’Sullivan is absent, Hearn stressed the importance of other players stepping up to fill the void left by the iconic figure.
“It is crucial for both fans and players to grasp the responsibility of replacing the eminent Ronnie O’Sullivan. The sport thrives on figures like him, and ideally, it would benefit from multiple talents akin to him,” Hearn added optimistically, hinting at potential successors from various backgrounds.
While recognizing O’Sullivan’s immense contributions to snooker, Hearn expressed a desire for the player’s happiness above all, emphasizing that the sport will miss his presence but hoping for his contentment in whatever path he chooses to follow.