Survival Mode: O’Sullivan Escapes O’Connor as Bigger Tests Loom
Ronnie O’Sullivan has kick-started his 2026 World Grand Prix campaign with a hard-fought 5–3 victory over Joe O’Connor, booking his place in the last 16 at Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Arena. It wasn’t vintage Rocket by any stretch, but when it mattered most, the six-time world champion once again proved why he remains one of the most dangerous competitors the game has ever seen.
The match was anything but straightforward. O’Sullivan found himself on the back foot early, trailing 2–0 and later 3–2 as O’Connor played with confidence and clarity, refusing to be overawed by the occasion or the opponent. For long spells, the younger Englishman dictated the tempo, capitalising on Ronnie’s rustiness and punishing loose shots.
Yet champions have a habit of surviving uncomfortable moments, and this was a classic example. Drawing on his experience and trademark composure, O’Sullivan turned the match on its head, winning five of the final six frames. There were flashes of brilliance—enough to remind everyone in the arena why he’s still box-office—but also signs that he’s searching for rhythm rather than playing freely.
The Hong Kong crowd was fully behind him, roaring on every pivotal pot and soaking in the theatre that only Ronnie can bring. By the time the final frame was sealed, the sense was clear: not his cleanest performance, but a crucial win in a high-stakes, one-table event where survival is everything.
Next up is a fascinating clash with China’s Xiao Guodong, who arrives full of confidence after a shock win over Kyren Wilson. On current form, that match looks far from a formality.
Away from the table, debate continues to swirl. Some fans and pundits, including voices on social media, believe O’Sullivan is well short of his best. The lack of consistent match practice is a growing concern, with many arguing that selectively entering just one or two events no longer provides enough competitive edge—especially in an era where the standard across the tour has never been higher.
Even at 95 percent, Ronnie can now be beaten. Younger, sharper players are fearless, well-drilled, and relentless. Without the pressure and rhythm that only regular tournament play can provide, O’Sullivan risks being caught out more often than not.
There are even murmurs that if his schedule remains so limited, he might be better served shifting focus elsewhere—perhaps even embracing the Chinese 8-ball circuit sooner rather than later.
For now, though, the Rocket rolls on. He’s through, still dangerous, still capable of turning matches with a flick of genius. Whether that will be enough to go all the way in Hong Kong remains the burning question—but write him off at your peril.
