Ronnie O’Sullivan to commute from Dublin for World Snooker Championship
Ronnie O’Sullivan will commute from Dublin to compete at this year’s World Snooker Championship, with the snooker legend using the Irish capital as his base for tax purposes, reports BritPanorama.
The prestigious tournament begins on Saturday at Sheffield’s Crucible Theatre and runs through 4 May. Rather than staying in England, the 50-year-old will travel back and forth between Ireland and the UK throughout the competition.
O’Sullivan disclosed his Dublin arrangement following his triumph at the inaugural John Virgo Trophy, where he comprehensively defeated John Higgins in Sunday’s final. The seven-time world champion has spent around three months annually in Ireland, having made it a regular residence over the past year.
His latest success came with a commanding 6-0 whitewash against his Scottish rival at Goffs in Ireland. After lifting the trophy, O’Sullivan spoke warmly about his connection to the country, stating, “The crowd here was amazing. Any venue we play in Ireland, but especially here at Goffs, the atmosphere is electric. Amazing.”
O’Sullivan further expressed, “I mean 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. But having lived here the last year or so, it’s been great. I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
His renewed confidence comes at a crucial time, with snooker’s most prestigious event just days away. O’Sullivan heads to Sheffield level with Stephen Hendry on seven world titles, seeking to claim the record outright with an eighth Crucible crown. This milestone has eluded him in recent seasons despite his dominance in major events, where he holds a record eight Masters and eight UK Championship titles.
As he aims to add to his storied legacy, O’Sullivan’s vintage display in Ireland suggests he enters this year’s championship in formidable shape. The competition will not only challenge his skills but also provide a platform for him to reclaim his place at the pinnacle of snooker history.
With a career steeped in acclaim, O’Sullivan’s journey this week serves as a reminder of how the sport’s landscape continues to evolve, testing even its finest players in profound ways.
