Ronnie O’Sullivan could follow darts sensation Luke Littler into the world of televised sporting challenges, with the seven-time world snooker champion expressing interest in a potential Netflix-style show featuring amateur players.
Littler, 19, recently attracted widespread attention after taking part in Beat Luke Littler, a special darts competition staged at Manchester Central. The event, hosted by former England footballer Gary Lineker and streamed live on Netflix, saw Fallon Sherrock emerge victorious after defeating the teenage star to claim a £501,000 prize.
The format gave 20 challengers an opportunity to take on Littler in a single-leg shootout. Had the world champion beaten every opponent, he would have secured the jackpot in addition to his appearance fee. However, Sherrock, who was the 15th challenger, ended his unbeaten run.
O’Sullivan, widely regarded as one of the greatest snooker players in history, could now become the focus of a similar television project.
His representatives reportedly believe the Snooker 900 format would provide an ideal foundation for a potential event in 2027.
Unlike traditional snooker, Snooker 900 features frames lasting a maximum of 15 minutes, with a 20-second shot clock, ball-in-hand penalties for fouls and a winner determined by the points leader when time expires.
Although the proposed programme would differ from the fast-paced nature of Littler’s darts challenge, snooker already has a comparable example in the entertaining Shoot Out tournament, where spectators are allowed to make noise and encourage players during matches.
O’Sullivan is understood to be interested in the concept, although discussions remain at an early stage and no formal offer has been made.
One particularly appealing aspect for the Rocket would be the opportunity to discover the sport’s next big talent. He is reportedly passionate about creating a platform for a promising young player who possesses the ability but has yet to receive the exposure needed to establish themselves at the highest level.
The project’s future could depend on Netflix’s assessment of the Littler event. However, reports suggest executives were pleased with how the live sporting production performed, particularly its ability to generate significant publicity and discussion.
Sherrock’s victory also attracted attention, with questions raised about the difference in experience and pedigree between her and some of the other challengers.
Meanwhile, O’Sullivan is scheduled to face Shaun Murphy in the opening round of the Champion of Champions in Leicester on Wednesday. The winner will subsequently meet either Judd Trump or Jak Jones later that evening.
The Dubai-based Englishman is also preparing for his first appearance in England since winning the inaugural Global Snooker 900 Championship in Reading in May, where he defeated Luca Brecel 10–5 in the final.
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