Stephen Hendry believes Ronnie O'Sullivan is copying snooker rival – 'That's the way to go'
Stephen Hendry has been impressed with Ronnie O'Sullivan's form and demeanour so far this season
Stephen Hendry reckons Ronnie O’Sullivan has taken a leaf out of Mark Williams’ book following a promising start to the season for the Rocket. O’Sullivan endured a troubled 2024/25 campaign, which saw him pull out of numerous tournaments at late notice after smashing his cue in anger in January.
As he indicated at the end of last season, the 49-year-old is partaking in a reduced schedule. But when he has played, O’Sullivan has looked refreshed and focused.
He brilliantly made two 147s in one match en route to reaching the final of the Saudi Arabia Masters, where he lost to Neil Roberton in a final-frame decider. O’Sullivan also looked in good nick at the recent Xi’an Grand Prix before falling at the quarter-finals to Gary Wilson.
That tournament was won by O’Sullivan’s fellow ‘Class of 92’ graduate Williams, who demolished the in-form Shaun Murphy in the final to become the oldest-ever winner of a ranking tournament at the age of 50 years and 206 days. The previous record was set by fellow Welshman Ray Reardon, who had just turned 50 when he won the Professional Players Tournament in 1982.
Williams’ relaxed attitude has contributed to his continued success. While still a fierce competitor at the table, he insists he doesn’t dwell on setbacks. And snooker legend Hendry believes that attitude has rubbed off on O’Sullivan.
Speaking on the WST’s Snooker Club podcast, the seven-time world champion said: “I think Ronnie’s trying to copy Mark a bit in his attitude. Ronnie’s seen that that’s the way to go.”
Hendry admires the fact that Williams is still playing at such a high standard despite barely practising away from tournaments. The Scot said: “That’s why I keep saying he’s my hero because of the life he’s leading, the way he’s doing it.
“He’s not practising. Far enough, he’s working hard at the event. He generally doesn’t care if he wins or loses; that’s a dangerous animal in any sport. They’re on a different plane to you [the opponent] straight away in terms of how composed they are.”