Ronnie O'Sullivan has announced he will stop doing lucrative exhibition events for the next two years to focus on tournaments and fitness.
The seven-time world champion made the decision following his impressive return to form at the World Championship in Sheffield.
O'Sullivan defeated Ali Carter 10-4 to advance to the second round at the Crucible.
The 49-year-old had not appeared in competitive play since January before making his comeback at snooker's most prestigious tournament.
Ronnie O'Sullivan has announced he will stop doing lucrative exhibition events for the next two years to focus on tournaments and fitness
PA
Despite his absence from the circuit, O'Sullivan looked in fine form as he dispatched his old rival with apparent ease.
The 49-year-old looked every bit "The Rocket" during his match against Carter, hitting four classy centuries.
The convincing victory came despite concerns about his readiness to return to competitive snooker.
"I was a bit scared about playing," O'Sullivan told TNT Sports after the match.
Ronnie O'Sullivan was too strong for Ali Carter in their showdown at the World Snooker Championship
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"It is a daunting venue to play at anyway, but it's just about getting on the bike again and playing."
He added: "I'm really happy that I've done it, even if I'd lost it didn't matter. I've made the breakthrough now."
The win marked a successful return after O'Sullivan had dropped out of several events for medical reasons.
Following his victory, O'Sullivan outlined his plans for the future and admitted that he wouldn't be playing in lucrative exhibitions as he looks to manage his schedule better.
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"I am going to give myself two years," he said.
"There will be no more exhibitions or distractions off the table. I will help out at the academy in Saudi Arabia."
The Rocket explained his passion for mentoring others in the sport.
"I enjoy the work I am doing there. Hopefully we can do something similar in the UK because my true love is to help people and give back," he continued.
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"That helps me to learn from other people. Otherwise it will just be tournaments and getting fit."
This marks a significant shift in priorities for one of snooker's most marketable stars.
O'Sullivan's return to the Crucible came after a difficult period in which he snapped his cue at the Championship League.
Ronnie O'Sullivan is looking to win the World Snooker Championship for the eighth time
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Prior to the tournament, there were doubts about his mental readiness to compete again.
O'Sullivan will now face Chinese player Pang Junxu in the second round at Sheffield.
The 25-year-old Pang earned his place by defeating Zhang Anda 10-7 in a close first-round match on Wednesday.
