Ronnie O’Sullivan Shuts Down Retirement Rumors, Vows to Keep Competing: “I’m Not Done Yet and Still Love the Game, There’s Plenty More to Come From Me
*By Jamie Lawson | August 25, 2025*
Ronnie O’Sullivan, widely regarded as the greatest snooker player of all time, has emphatically dismissed speculation that he is preparing to retire, insisting he has “plenty more to give” to the sport he has dominated for over three decades.
The seven-time world champion made the remarks in an exclusive interview following his quarter-final win at the International Championship in Daqing, where he produced a vintage display of flair, composure, and clinical finishing — much to the delight of fans and pundits alike.
Rumors had begun to circulate earlier this summer that O’Sullivan, now 49, might be preparing to step away from competitive snooker following a series of cryptic social media posts and his absence from several minor ranking events. But when asked directly about his future, O’Sullivan didn’t mince words.
> “People love to talk, don’t they?” he said with a grin. “One week it’s ‘Ronnie’s lost his edge’, the next it’s ‘he’s unbeatable’. I’m not retiring. I’m not done yet. I still love the game, and as long as I’m enjoying it and feel I can compete at the top level, I’ll keep going.”
“A New Phase, Not an End”
O’Sullivan acknowledged that his approach to the game has changed in recent years, particularly in how he manages his schedule. No longer the prolific event-hopper of his youth, he now picks and chooses his tournaments carefully, prioritizing longevity over volume.
> “I’m in a new phase of my career,” he explained. “It’s not about grinding every week anymore. It’s about showing up when I’m sharp, fresh, and motivated. That’s how I get the best out of myself these days.”
Despite a reduced schedule, O’Sullivan has remained fiercely competitive, winning two ranking titles last season and reaching the semi-finals or better in five others. His world ranking currently sits at number four, a testament to his enduring class in a sport increasingly dominated by younger players.
“I love testing myself against the new lads,” he said. “They’re fast, fearless, and hungry — reminds me of how I was when I came up. But I’ve got the experience now. I’ve learned how to win ugly, how to handle the pressure. That counts for something.”
Mentally Stronger Than Ever
O’Sullivan has often spoken candidly about the mental challenges of professional sport, and in previous years, he admitted to battling burnout, anxiety, and a lack of motivation. But in 2025, he says his mindset is in a much healthier place.
> “It took me a long time to get the mental side right,” he revealed. “I used to chase perfection, and when it didn’t come, I’d beat myself up. Now I just focus on playing solid, entertaining snooker — and on enjoying it. That’s been the biggest shift for me.”
He’s quick to credit his long-time mentor and sports psychologist, Steve Peters, for helping him maintain focus and emotional balance, especially during high-pressure matches.
> “Steve’s helped me stay grounded,” O’Sullivan said. “He taught me that I’m more than just a snooker player — that my self-worth doesn’t depend on winning or losing. That’s powerful.”
Fueling the Fire
With the 2026 World Championship less than eight months away, many are wondering whether O’Sullivan has one more Crucible triumph in him. If he wins an eighth world title, he would surpass Stephen Hendry’s modern-era record and further cement his legacy as the undisputed GOAT.
But O’Sullivan, never one to dwell too much on records, downplays the importance of silverware.
> “Records are nice, but they’re not everything,” he shrugged. “What matters most to me is playing well, competing hard, and giving fans something to enjoy. If the wins come, great. If not, I’ve still had a hell of a ride.”
Still, he admits the fire to win burns just as brightly as ever — especially when critics suggest his best days are behind him.
> “When people write me off, it motivates me. I think, ‘Alright, I’ll show you’. And that’s what I plan to keep doing.”
Life Beyond the Baize
Away from the table, O’Sullivan keeps busy with a number of projects. His autobiography, *Running Man*, continues to sell well worldwide, and his fictional crime novels have found a loyal readership. He’s also a familiar voice on commentary and has recently hinted at a return to television with a new documentary series exploring the mental side of sport.
> “I’ve got loads of interests now,” he said. “Writing, running, food — I love it all. But snooker’s still part of my DNA. It’s given me everything. As long as I can play to a level I’m proud of, I’ll be sticking around.”
The Fans Still Roar
It’s clear that O’Sullivan’s appeal hasn’t waned. Wherever he plays, arenas sell out, ticket prices soar, and social media lights up. From teenagers inspired by his swagger to lifelong fans who’ve followed his journey since the ’90s, the “Rocket” continues to captivate audiences like no other.
> “I owe so much to the fans,” he said warmly. “They’ve stuck by me through thick and thin — even when I’ve gone a bit mad now and then. That connection, that buzz you get when you walk out and hear them cheer… you can’t replicate that.”
Final Word: “There’s Still Work to Do”
As our interview winds down, O’Sullivan takes a moment to reflect.
> “I know I won’t be playing forever. Nobody can. But right now? There’s still work to do. There are still matches to win, breaks to build, magic to make. I’m not going anywhere just yet.”
He smiles, that trademark twinkle in his eye.
> “If you’re waiting for my retirement party, you might want to hold off for a bit. The Rocket’s still flying.”
**Jamie Lawson** is a freelance sports journalist specializing in snooker, tennis, and sports psychology. Follow him on X .
