Ronnie O'Sullivan has hinted that he's in a new relationship as he prepares for today's clash with Pang Junxu at the World Snooker Championship.
The 49-year-old booked his place in the second round with an emphatic victory over old rival Ali Carter earlier this week.
O'Sullivan previously split from Laila Rouass last year, with the couple deciding to go their separate ways after 13 years together.
However, his latest comments suggest he's got a new partner.
Ronnie O'Sullivan has hinted that he's in a new relationship as he prepares for today's clash with Pang Junxu at the World Snooker Championship
PA
It's common knowledge that O'Sullivan has struggled for confidence this year, with the veteran choosing to withdraw from numerous tournaments before the World Snooker Championship.
Discussing his issues, he told TNT Sports: “I can’t switch off, no.
“It’s with you all the time. Even when I’m at home practising.
“If I’ve had a dodgy day, I go home and I’m sitting there and I’m like quiet, moody."
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O'Sullivan then hinted at his new romance by saying that his 'missus' has been left frustrated by his confidence issues.
He continued: “Sort of like in my own head and the missus is looking at me, thinking, ‘come on, liven up’.
“I say snooker’s like chess with balls. It’s one of them sports.
“You see chess players. There’s a lot going on in their heads. But with footballers, you just have a laugh and a joke.
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Ronnie O'Sullivan and Laila Rouass split last year after 13 years together
PA“I envy it. I wish I could have been a footballer. They look like you’re having a great time.”
O'Sullivan has established himself as one of the greatest snooker players of all time during the course of his glittering career.
He has, however, branded snooker a 'horrible sport' and 'evil' as he looks to rediscover his best form.
“I really enjoy being out there playing, and I love doing a bit of TV work with the lads," he stated.
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“It just breaks it up a bit. But during my last match, I felt a bit edgy. While I was playing it was fine.
“I went home and then I thought: ‘Oh, the anxiety is kicking off.’
“The next day, I felt a lot better and calmer. It’s a killer of a sport. A horrible sport. It’s evil.”
O'Sullivan will face off against Pang at around 2.30pm on Saturday.
Ronnie O'Sullivan will lock horns with Pang Junxu at the World Snooker Championship today
PA
The snooker star was too strong for Carter earlier in the week, beating his foe 10-4 to progress to round two.
As for Pang, the 25-year-old was able to progress with a 10-7 win over compatriot Zhang Anda.
