Ronnie O'Sullivan Threatens Retirement Over Potential Darts-Style Walk-On Music

Ronnie O'Sullivan has recently declared that he would "definitely retire" if snooker were to adopt walk-on music akin to that used in darts. The 48-year-old, who shares the record for the most world championships with seven titles, has not yet secured a win in the 2024/25 season. Following a disappointing 4-2 defeat to He Guoqiang in the English Open, he remarked, "I haven't got long" left in his career.

In a conversation with talkSport, O'Sullivan was questioned about whether snooker should emulate darts to attract a younger audience. His response was clear: "Not having it. I'd probably definitely retire! I’d be like, 'You know what? I'm out of here now.'"

While he acknowledged the challenge of engaging younger viewers in the UK, O'Sullivan expressed enthusiasm for the game's growth in countries such as China and Saudi Arabia, where interest is thriving among younger fans. He observed, "In the UK, it is an older crowd, but in China and Saudi Arabia, they have a very young crowd watching it. I think snooker struggles when competing with football, tennis, and golf, as parents often prioritize those sports for their children."

O'Sullivan also shared his fondness for playing in China and Saudi Arabia, indicating he would prefer to spend more time participating in events and exhibitions in those regions. "I just like being out there, so any excuse to get me out there... I spend as much time there as I can," he stated.

Additionally, he reiterated his support for the potential relocation of the World Snooker Championship from its long-time home at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, where it has been hosted since 1977. The venue's contract expires in 2027, and O'Sullivan believes that a move could be beneficial. "It can move about—I don’t see any reason why it shouldn’t," he said. He emphasized that players deserve to be well cared for during tournaments and noted the positive experiences of players in China and Saudi Arabia, where they have received excellent treatment.

"The Crucible is a great venue; it has been fantastic over the years. Wherever they take it, I’m sure they’ll do a good job," he concluded.