Ali Carter comments on rivalry with Ronnie O’Sullivan ahead of World Snooker Championship
Ali Carter has provided an update on his longstanding rivalry with Ronnie O’Sullivan as he prepares for the 2026 World Snooker Championship, where they have produced memorable encounters over the years, reports BritPanorama.
Carter is set to make his 22nd appearance at the Crucible Theatre. Throughout his previous 21 tournaments, he has faced O’Sullivan six times, notably in two finals, both of which he lost. Last year, Carter experienced a disappointing first-round exit, succumbing to O’Sullivan with a score of 10-4, the match marking a renewed intensity in their rivalry.
The only time Carter triumphed over O’Sullivan was in 2018, a victory that drew considerable attention due to a controversial incident involving a shoulder-barge during their match. Despite their history, Carter has now expressed a desire to avoid playing O’Sullivan, highlighting that their relationship has evolved.
“Listen, I don’t really want to play Ronnie to be honest with you. I know I’m probably going to get him again,” Carter remarked. He added, “There is no animosity there now between Ronnie and I. We’ve both grown up a bit now,” indicating a shift in their dynamic.
Carter will face a formidable challenge in his opening match against four-time World Champion John Higgins, while O’Sullivan’s first-round match will see him up against He Guoqiang. This year, O’Sullivan has opted to commute from Dublin, where he has established residency and conducts tax arrangements, to participate in the tournament, which runs from April 19 to May 4.
Having recently won the inaugural John Virgo Trophy with a decisive 6-0 victory over Higgins, O’Sullivan indicated a strong connection to Dublin, stating, “I live here quite a lot now. I spend three months a year here. I’ve always loved coming to Ireland. It has always had a special place in my heart.”
This year’s World Snooker Championship promises to be another exciting chapter in the ongoing narratives of its players, showcasing the delicate interplay between rivalry and reconciliation, where even the fiercest opponents can find a path forward. With O’Sullivan still commanding attention, the dynamic within the tournament remains as compelling as ever.
