I’m probably the fittest I’ve been for ten years, says O’sullivan
Reigning world champion Ronnie O’sullivan attributed his physical and mental health to a stunning first-round comeback win over Ding Junhui at the Masters in Milton Keynes.
Having trailed 3-1 at the midsession interval, the 45- yearold looked down and out 5-3 behind in the best-of -11 encounter at the Marshall Arena, where the second Triple Crown event of the season is being held due to Covid-19 restrictions.
But the Rocket–who has 37 ranking event titles to his name in addition to seven Masters wins–responded by claiming the match’s final three frames with two halfcenturies in tow, to prevail 6-5.
“I’m probably the fittest I’ve been for ten years,” said the world No 3. “I’m running 45 miles a week at the moment, and I’m more excited about that than anything else, really.
“I’m trying to get up to 60 miles a week if I can, while potting a few balls and enjoying the snooker. It was nice to pot a few balls today and get the result.
“When it’ s not going your way in a big match, you’ve just got to suck it up sometimes. I never doubt my ability to stick in there – I’m Premier League in the mentality department.”
Despite Judd Trump being absent and the fact the likes of Neil Robertson and Mark Selby have already fallen, O’sullivan isn’t expecting an easy ride in the Masters.
O’sullivan added: “I don’t pay a lot of attention to who goes out and when. It never works out how it’s supposed to - that’s just sport.”