Will Snooker Survive Without Its Star? The Future After Ronnie O’Sullivan’s Reign
Ronnie O’Sullivan has undeniably been the face of snooker for much of his career. His dazzling skill, vibrant personality, and undeniable mastery of the game have made him a global icon, elevating snooker’s appeal beyond its traditional fanbase. But just as with other sports legends, the game itself will endure long after his playing days are over. Take darts, for example: when Phil Taylor retired, there was genuine concern about the sport’s future. Yet, it’s continued to thrive, with stars like Gerwyn Price and Michael van Gerwen stepping up to carry the torch. The same could be true for snooker.
While O’Sullivan’s unique style—his flair, unpredictability, and connection with audiences—has made him the sport’s face for years, snooker is larger than any single player. The game itself has a rich history, and the rise of new talent shows that the future remains bright. Judd Trump, Neil Robertson, Kyren Wilson, and others are already making their mark, and with the increasing influence of social media and global streaming platforms, snooker’s reach is expanding, even without Ronnie headlining every event.
However, one can’t ignore that O’Sullivan’s departure will likely leave a void. His presence has been a massive draw for fans, and his ability to generate excitement around the sport is unmatched. Still, much like in darts, snooker has the potential to evolve, with emerging stars filling the gap. The question remains: when Ronnie steps back, will there be a lasting void, or will the sport move forward seamlessly, powered by the next generation of talent?
In the end, while O’Sullivan has been the beating heart of snooker, the sport’s longevity depends on its ability to embrace new faces and continue to captivate global audiences.
