Ronnie O’Sullivan will finally overtake me as the World Snooker Championship GOAT this year – I’m putting it out there
STEPHEN HENDRY has tipped Ronnie O’Sullivan to claim an eighth World Snooker Championship this year.
A triumph at the Crucible this week would see the Rocket move clear of Hendry with the most titles in the modern era.
O’Sullivan pulled level with the snooker legend in 2022 after becoming world champion for the seventh time.
Now the Scot believes the time has come for his rival to move ahead with a record-breaking victory.
Hendry discussed O’Sullivan’s chances on his YouTube channel alongside fellow former world champion Steve Davis.
He explained: “I am of the opinion that if he doesn’t do it this year, he might not do it.
“When he was in the Tour Championship he said he’s got Steve Peters working with him again.
“Is he putting everything in place to give it one big push? I tend to think he will win the World Championship this year, I’m putting it out there – I think he will win it. I’ve thought it all year.”
After beating Jackson Page in the first round in Sheffield, O’Sullivan claimed he can stay at the top of the game into his 50s.
Hendry agrees and has tipped the 48-year-old for more success in the years to come.
CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS
He added: “I think he’s got another five, seven or eight years (left).
“But if you look at his real great performances, they’re fewer and further between than they used to be. He’s winning a lot of matches, because people can’t beat him.
“He’s set the standards so high that even Judd (Trump) hasn’t beaten him for around three years.”
O’Sullivan followed his victory over Page by beating Ryan Day in round two to reach the quarter-finals.
He now takes on Stuart Bingham for a place in the last four and a potential clash with Judd Trump.
The pair previously met in the 2022 final, with O’Sullivan claiming an 18-13 victory over the Ace in the Pack.