Ronnie O’Sullivan delivered an impactful speech. Players’ interactions with fans add a unique dimension to the sport.

Ronnie O’Sullivan delivered an impactful speech. Players’ interactions with fans add a unique dimension to the sport.

Snooker legend Ronnie O’Sullivan’s reaction to his World Snooker Championship exit sums up the tournament’s history.

On Wednesday afternoon, Luca Brecel put an end to Ronnie O’Sullivan’s incredible journey to become the most successful player in tournament history.

After Luca Brecel was stunningly eliminated from the World Snooker Championship, Ronnie O’Sullivan was eager to compliment him.

In his quarterfinal, the Rocket, who was vying for a record-breaking eighth world title, had the Belgian down 10-6 heading into Wednesday’s afternoon session. However, Brecel staged a stunning comeback, taking the last seven sets to secure an unexpected 13–10 triumph.

Even though they had taken the lead early in the game, O’Sullivan acknowledged that it was just a matter of time until the balls’ trajectory shifted. “He gave an amazing performance. I love watching him play since he is such a great player. He told BBC Sport, “He is such a dynamic player and he is full of talent.”

Brecel, backed by the greatest player in history, will now take on the victor of Anthony McGill’s quarterfinal match against Si Jiahiu.

Most likely the best pool player I have ever seen,” the Rocket said. “Just for snooker, I would love to watch him win because that is how the game should be played. Fantastic player, extraordinarily gifted, and a sweet child. I wish him all the best and I hope he goes on to win the championship.

You still have to pot the balls, but perhaps he wouldn’t have played as well if I had offered a little more resistance. I was simply not doing well enough to influence the outcome of the game.