Xiao Guodong Stuns O’Sullivan in Heartfelt Victory: ‘I Feel Sorry for My Idol’ as Rocket Battles Decline
Xiao Guodong’s victory over Ronnie O’Sullivan at the World Grand Prix has sparked attention, not only because of the surprising result but due to the emotional complexity behind it. O’Sullivan, regarded as one of the greatest players in snooker history, has struggled with his form in recent months, and Xiao, a self-proclaimed fan of “The Rocket,” found himself in a bittersweet position after securing his first-ever win over the snooker legend.
Already riding high after defeating reigning World Champion Kyren Wilson earlier in the tournament, Xiao reached new heights by ousting O’Sullivan in the second round. It was a milestone for the 34-year-old from China, but his joy was mixed with guilt. Xiao admitted he felt torn between his respect for O’Sullivan and the fierce desire to win. “I feel sorry for Ronnie,” Xiao confessed. “He’s my idol. I want him to go to the final and win, but it’s sport. When I’m playing, I don’t want to lose.” Xiao’s words reflect the inherent tension in sport, where winning can come at the cost of leaving an admired opponent behind.
O’Sullivan, on the other hand, seemed unusually candid about his recent struggles. The six-time World Champion admitted, “I’m just not a very good player anymore.” Known for his confidence, O’Sullivan displayed rare vulnerability, acknowledging that he has struggled to maintain the excellence that once defined his career. “Deep down, I enjoy playing, but I have to accept I’m not as good as I was and find a way to keep playing without it driving me crazy,” he shared.
While O’Sullivan remains a formidable competitor, his recent form has raised questions about his future. Some fans, like John Mark, suggested that more tournament play could help him regain his sharpness, stating, “You can’t expect to be at the top of your game by playing in just the occasional event.” But the challenge O’Sullivan faces seems deeper than just playing more matches; it’s a mental struggle, with motivation proving difficult after achieving so much.
Xiao’s victory marks a subtle shift in the snooker world, signaling that the next generation is ready to rise. For O’Sullivan, the road ahead may be tough, but if anyone can adapt and find renewed motivation, it’s him. For Xiao, the journey continues, but with his admiration for O’Sullivan still intact, he remains determined to compete at the highest level.
