Stephen Hendry Warns Ronnie O'Sullivan's Game Remains Frustratingly Inconsistent

Seven-time world champion Stephen Hendry has identified a persistent pattern in Ronnie O'Sullivan's recent performances: sudden shifts between exceptional shot-making and visible struggles within the same match. Hendry's assessment reflects O'Sullivan's campaign at the Shanghai Masters, where the 50-year-old produced three consecutive centuries—including a commanding 131—yet still lost 6-4 to Kyren Wilson in the last 16.

The Pattern of Inconsistency

Speaking on the World Snooker Tour's Snooker Club podcast, Hendry characterised O'Sullivan's current form as problematic. "He goes from the sublime to the ridiculous," Hendry explained, noting that O'Sullivan "can suddenly look absolutely flawless and then go back to really struggling." This volatility has defined the past two seasons for the Rocket, during which he has failed to win a tournament despite producing world record moments, including two 147 breaks in a single match at the Saudi Arabia Masters and a record 153 break at the World Open.

The inconsistency extends beyond individual matches. O'Sullivan himself acknowledged the challenge when discussing his prospects at Sheffield, telling World Snooker Tour officials that he has approximately two seasons remaining to secure an eighth world title—a record he believes he must achieve soon or risk never attaining it. "I'd love to win another World Championship. I've got two attempts at it," he stated, adding that his cueing technique had been problematic in previous years.

Immediate Opportunities Ahead

O'Sullivan has scheduled opportunities to demonstrate improved form this month. He faces Jackson Page in the China Open on Sunday, followed by the Wuhan Open, both ranking events that could serve as platforms for rebuilding momentum. The China Open, held at the Riverside Sports Centre in Taiyuan, features a revamped prize structure that now matches the UK Championship, signalling the tournament's restoration to prominence following its 2020 cancellation due to pandemic-related restrictions.

Despite the recent Shanghai disappointment, O'Sullivan expressed cautious optimism about the season ahead. His candid assessment—balancing career satisfaction with realistic acknowledgement of his remaining competitive window—underscores the high stakes surrounding his pursuit of an eighth title and the critical importance of finding consistency across his game.