Ronnie O’Sullivan may be through to yet another Crucible quarter final, but the Rocket’s body language tells a tale of lingering frustration.
After finishing off Pang Junxu 13-4 in just over two and a half sessions, he rated his own performance “probably two out of ten” and repeatedly inspected the tip of his cue between shots.
In the post match interview he admitted that the balance feels “a little off” following a mid season tip replacement, even hinting he might switch equipment before facing surprise package Si Jiahui.
Yet his scoring was scarcely hindered centuries of 124 and 126 kept the Chinese debutant at arm’s length.
O’Sullivan explained that when timing is not perfect he falls back on his safety game, but conceded that against heavier scorers he “will need that extra gear.”
Cue maker John Parris is reportedly on call in Sheffield should an emergency re tip be required.
Commentators argue that O’Sullivan’s dissatisfaction is as much psychological as technical, a familiar ritual that keeps him chasing perfection.
Whatever the truth, his continued dominance despite internal dissatisfaction only enhances the mystique if two out of ten is enough to reach the last eight, rivals wonder what happens when the cue finally feels right.
