Ronnie O’Sullivan apologises on offensive comments about World Snooker – Snooker news
After winning his second Players Tour Championship (PTC) title grabbing PTC7 a few days ago, Ronnie O’Sullivan made some offensive comments about the snooker governing body, World Snooker, regarding the ranking point distribution in the minor ranking events.
He felt bad to be a part of these events just to earn ranking points so that his ranking could not tumble down.
The Englishman said on October 18, “I feel like I’m being raped when I’m playing in them. I feel I’m being blackmailed. They put these ranking events on and ranking points at these tournaments and it just feels like the winner’s prize is not great, the loser’s
prize.”
These words were not appreciated by the World Snooker administration and they responded offensively. Many other critics including players were feeling bad about the former three-time world champion’s remarks. However, the Rocket has now asked for an apology
to those who were offended by his recent remarks whilst playing in Players Tour Championship (PTC) events.
While speaking to the media about his remarks, the Wordsley potter said, “I'm really sorry if I offended anyone. I wanted to explain how I felt but I used the wrong word. I didn't realise it would cause any offence. I will be happy to personally apologise
to anyone who is offended.”
Meanwhile, the 35-year-old will be playing against the defending champion, China's Ding Junhui in the opening match of 2011 Masters at Alexandra Palace in January, 2012. The Chinese took one of snooker's most prestigious events last season ousting Marco
Fu in the final encounter. Junhui has been handed a tough first encounter this season against former four-time Masters champion, O'Sullivan.
Besides the thrilling opening match, there are a couple of other exciting clashes too in the first round, as the current China Open champion, Judd Trump will take on the Australian Goldfields Open winner, Stuart Bingham. In another match, reigning world
champion, John Higgins, will be facing Welshman, Matthew Stevens, in the first round.
The first round draw for 2011 Masters is given below:
Ding Junhui vs Ronnie O'Sullivan
Judd Trump vs Stuart Bingham
Neil Robertson vs Mark Allen
Mark Williams vs Stephen Maguire
Mark Selby vs Stephen Lee
Shaun Murphy vs Martin Gould
Ali Carter vs Graeme Dott
John Higgins vs Matthew Stevens
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