Ronnie O’Sullivan’s ‘Massive’ Rival Pursues Fresh Career After Earning Praise from Snooker GOAT — ‘Geezer Is Unbelievable’
A celebrated figure from the golden era of professional snooker is set to swap the green baize for public service, after earning renewed admiration from none other than Ronnie O’Sullivan — widely regarded as the greatest snooker player of all time.
Former world No. 3 James Wattana, one of snooker’s first major overseas stars, is embarking on a new chapter in his life by entering politics in his native Thailand. The 55-year-old, who retired from the main professional circuit in 2020 after a 30-year career, has declared his intention to stand as a Member of Parliament candidate with the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party ahead of Thailand’s forthcoming general election on 8 February 2026.
Wattana’s decision marks a significant transition from sporting icon to public figure, and comes with a memorable endorsement from O’Sullivan, the seven-time world champion. Speaking recently at a snooker event, O’Sullivan reflected on his battles with Wattana and the huge influence the Thai star had on popularising the sport in Asia. He described Wattana’s peak fame in Thailand as extraordinary, saying: “I played James out here in his peak… and he was on every advert — Nescafe, Thai Airways — and I was sitting there thinking, ‘this geezer is unbelievable.’”
O’Sullivan went on to highlight how Wattana’s success helped grow snooker across Thailand, noting that at the height of his career “he couldn’t go anywhere and needed a security police escort to go everywhere.”
Indeed, Wattana’s influence on the sport cannot be overstated. Turning professional in 1989, he compiled an illustrious résumé that included three ranking titles, two semi-final appearances at the World Championship, and victory over snooker legends like Steve Davis and Ronnie O’Sullivan himself — notably at the Thailand Open in 1995.
In addition to his ranking success, Wattana was a trailblazer for Asian players on the world tour. His achievements inspired generations of players from across Asia — including the likes of Ding Junhui, Marco Fu, and a strong contingent of Thai professionals now competing in elite events.
Wattana’s decision to enter the political arena reflects both his continued popularity in Thailand and a desire to serve his country beyond sport. Long after hanging up his cue, he remains a household name in Thailand, where snooker enjoys widespread support thanks in no small part to his pioneering success in the 1990s.
While details of his political platform have yet to be fully unveiled, his candidature has already stirred interest among sports fans and national media alike. Wattana’s move into politics mirrors other athletes who have transitioned into public life, carrying with them the recognition and leadership skills forged over years in the public eye.
For snooker fans, the story is a reminder of both the global reach of the sport and the lasting respect between its top performers. O’Sullivan’s praise for Wattana — referring to him as “unbelievable” — underlines the esteem in which the Thai great is still held, even decades after his peak competitive years.
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