Seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan has revealed he is eyeing 2028 as a potential retirement window from professional snooker, following private discussions with sport legends Steve Davis and Stephen Hendry. The 49-year-old Englishman, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport, shared that listening to the experiences of fellow multiple world champions has shaped his long-term career outlook.
According to interviews reported by major sporting outlets, O’Sullivan considered the career arcs of both Davis and Hendry when contemplating his future in competitive play. Hendry dominated the 1990s with seven world titles, while Davis ruled the 1980s with six modern-era crowns. Both veterans struggled with the decline of their competitive powers in the latter stages of their careers, a trap O’Sullivan hopes to avoid by orchestrating a planned exit from the World Snooker Tour.
Retirement Timeline and Legend Advice
O’Sullivan indicated that reaching the year 2028 would mark a natural juncture to evaluate whether to put down his cue permanently. The timeframe would align roughly with his early 50s, a stage where maintaining the intense physical and mental focus required for elite snooker becomes increasingly difficult. According to statements cited by the BBC, O’Sullivan noted that speaking with Davis and Hendry provided valuable perspective on knowing when the time is right to step away from the baize.
“I’ve spoken to Steve and Stephen about it,” O’Sullivan explained in source-backed interviews. The dialogue with the sport’s past titans emphasized the importance of leaving the game on one’s own terms rather than fading out through prolonged first-round exits. O’Sullivan currently holds a record-equalling seven World Snooker Championship titles alongside Hendry, maintaining his competitive edge on the global circuit despite reducing his tournament schedule in recent seasons.
Impact on the World Snooker Tour
An eventual departure by O’Sullivan would mark the end of an era for professional snooker, considering his status as the sport’s biggest commercial draw and ticket-seller. Tournament organizers frequently rely on his presence to boost television ratings and arena attendance across the United Kingdom, China, and the broader international calendar. While younger talents like Judd Trump, Kyren Wilson, and Luca Brecel have established themselves at the top of the rankings, the tour without O’Sullivan faces a significant transition in global appeal.
For now, the Rocket continues to compete in select ranking events, balancing his heavy global exhibition schedule with professional tour commitments. Whether the 2028 milestone ultimately brings down the curtain on his illustrious career will depend on his form, motivation, and physical wellbeing in the coming seasons.