Ronnie O’Sullivan has been backed by TNT Sports experts to win a record eighth World Snooker Championship title after showing strong form early in the 2025/26 season.
Following a difficult previous campaign that ended with a heavy 17–7 defeat to Zhao Xintong in the Crucible semi-finals, O’Sullivan relocated to Dubai, equipped himself with a new cue, and has been showing renewed focus. He recently reached the Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters final, where he was narrowly beaten by Neil Robertson despite recording two maximum breaks in a single match.
At 49 and approaching his 50th birthday, O’Sullivan told TNT Sports that he remains hungry to surpass Stephen Hendry’s seven world titles. A TNT Sports panel featuring Rachel Casey, Jimmy White, and Alan McManus all predicted he could achieve that milestone this season. McManus said O’Sullivan’s determination could outweigh the effects of time, while White and Casey agreed this might be his best, and possibly final, big opportunity to make history.
The panel also discussed their predictions for the other Triple Crown events. For the UK Championship in York, McManus chose Shaun Murphy based on current form, White tipped Neil Robertson after his Saudi success, and Casey backed reigning world champion Zhao Xintong.
Looking ahead to the Masters in January, McManus and White both expect Zhao to thrive on the big stage, while Casey believes Murphy could defend his title at Alexandra Palace.
Be the first to comment