Rocket’s on a different planet, says No 5 Judd

RONNIE O’SULLIVAN is “living on a different planet” as he talks of launching a breakaway snooker tour, according to Judd Trump.

Trump, the world number five, was commenting after O’Sullivan claimed on Sunday that he was “ready to go” and kick-off a Champions League-style tour for the sport’s leading players.

The five-time world champion, still the sport’s best and most popular player as he approaches his 43rd birthday tomorrow, spoke of enticing Stephen Hendry out of retirement to join him, as well as great friend and rival John Higgins, who is considering ending his career.

Trump, who beat O’Sullivan in a thrilling Northern Ireland Open final a fortnight ago, thinks he may be waiting a long time.

“I think he’s living on a different planet to the rest of us,” he said.

“Money’s not an issue to him, he can take chances, he’s got such a strong following he’s always going to be able to earn money in the game.

“I think he’s a bit on his own there. Personally, I think what [World Snooker boss] Barry Hearn has done is amazing for us, the money is going up every year, conditions have been a lot better recently, tables are playing well. I’m more than happy with what’s going on and how I’m playing.

“You’d always be happy to have another tour on the side, earning extra money, but for most of the players I think we’re all pretty happy.”