Jimmy White Updates on Ronnie O’Sullivan’s World Championship Readiness
Jimmy White has offered a fresh update on Ronnie O’Sullivan ahead of the 2026 World Snooker Championship. The tournament begins on April 18 at the Crucible Theatre.
O’Sullivan is 50 and chasing a record eighth world title. He has not officially confirmed his participation, but he appears in the main draw. Jimmy White is in the qualifying rounds. He faces Chinese youngster Gao Yang, returning after a three-season absence.
Plans at White’s private club
White says he will invite O’Sullivan to his new private snooker club for practice and an exhibition. He joked a salt beef sandwich might help persuade him to attend.
White praised the club’s facilities as top class. He expects O’Sullivan to use the venue ahead of his Crucible tie.
Form and expectations
Jimmy White Updates on Ronnie O’Sullivan’s World Championship Readiness included praise of his match sharpness. White called O’Sullivan the favourite for an eighth title.
He pointed to recent high-level performances. Last month O’Sullivan was runner-up to Thailand’s Thepchaiya Un-Nooh at the World Open. O’Sullivan recorded a 153 break during that event.
Fitness and routine
O’Sullivan credits running with improving his fitness and wellbeing. He first took up running in the early 2000s, before returning to it during the 2020 lockdown.
In his 2023 book, Unbreakable, he described running as a way to switch off. He said it helped him keep a life outside snooker and maintain focus on match days.
World Seniors Championship entry
O’Sullivan has entered the World Seniors Championship for the first time. That event starts two days after the main World Championship concludes.
The seniors event is open to players aged over 40. Several notable names will make appearances.
- Mark Williams
- Stuart Bingham
- Reanne Evans
- Ali Carter
- Matthew Stevens
- Robert Milkins
- Jimmy White (four-time world seniors champion)
- Alfie Burden (2025 winner)
- Ken Doherty (1997 Crucible champion)
Filmogaz.com will monitor developments as the Crucible approaches. Expect further updates on draws and preparations.
