Scott’s right on cue to break into world’s top 16
Rising Scottish star Scott Donaldson is resetting his goals – because he didn’t think he’d be any good at snooker.
Promising Perth potter Donaldson, 25, has surprised himself by flying up to 26th in the world rankings and making a dream World Championship debut this year.
The cueman has reached four ranking semi-finals during his fledgling career so far and is desperate to go further to fulfil his potential. “Growing up dreaming of becoming a snooker player I didn’t think I’d get this far!” admitted Donaldson.
“I’ve sort of had to reassess my goals over the past year or so because I’ve done better than I thought I would. “I’ve made a few ranking semi-finals and I’d love to go even further and make a final or even win a tournament. “There have been some brilliant players from Scotland, but I need to focus on being the best player I can be – not trying to emulate anyone else.”
Scotland has a rich vein of history on the green-baize with Stephen Hendry (seven), John Higgins (four) and Graeme Dott (one) all world champions. Golden oldie Alan Mcmanus has won the Masters, whilst Stephen
Maguire has pocketed the UK Championship.
And young gun Donaldson is eying up the game’s elite top 16, which would earn him qualification for the Masters – the sport’s most-prestigious invitational event – and an automatic spot at the Worlds. “I know how hard it is to get into the top 16,” stressed Donaldson.
“But that’s what I should be aiming for because I’m not that far off.
“I know how far the gulf is between the top 16 and the likes of 25th in the world – it’s a big gulf.
“If I’m going to get to the level of those guys, then I’m going to have to become more clinical.
“My safety game is as good as anyone’s, so I just need to consistently score heavier if I’m going to keep improving.
“That’s me being critical of myself because everything’s good at the moment and I’m pleased with the way my career is going.”