2024 Masters: Ronnie O’Sullivan Fights Back to Secure Eighth Title

In a remarkable comeback, Ronnie O’Sullivan clinched a historic eighth Masters title by overcoming a 6-3 deficit to beat Ali Carter 10-7. This victory not only extends O'Sullivan's record as the oldest Masters champion at 48 but also sets the stage for a potential season-defining achievement. 

Having already secured the UK Championship in December, O'Sullivan is now on the cusp of joining an elite group of snooker legends—Steve Davis (1988), Stephen Hendry (1995 and 1996), and Mark Williams (2003), who have claimed the coveted triple crown in a single season. A win at the upcoming World Championship in May would solidify his place among these snooker greats and further cement his legacy in the sport.

Reflecting on the challenging battle, Ronnie downplayed the pressure from Carter, stating, "I really didn't feel pushed to be honest. I was there for the taking, been there for the taking a week, no one could take me. So, it's weird. Something's going on." Despite his own assessment, he acknowledged that he was not performing at his peak, estimating his play at "about 50, 60% of what I'm capable of."

Acknowledging the frustrations of not playing at his best, Ronnie expressed a desire to dominate his opponents, saying, "It'd be nice to just blow people away. I don't like fudging my way around to just blast people away." He admitted that winning despite not being at his best was a source of frustration but recognised that a win is a win.

The victory marked Ronnie's 23rd Triple Crown title, prompting questions about whether he's setting records that may never be surpassed. In response, he casually remarked, "Probably, yeah. Someone's got to do it." Maintaining his characteristic nonchalant attitude, he dismissed the talk about records, stating, "Just like I've ignored it for the last 30 years. I just get on with it."

The significance of Ronnie O'Sullivan's family presence at the event was not merely symbolic but had a tangible impact on his strategic approach to the game. Throughout the week, O'Sullivan had adopted a carefree playing style, taking daring shots and exhibiting a somewhat reckless approach on the snooker table. However, with his family in attendance for the final, he recognised the gravity of the moment and decided to make a conscious shift in his strategy.

In a departure from his earlier carefree approach, O'Sullivan expressed a deliberate intention to make the final night a distinct and memorable occasion. He explained, "All week, I've kind of played carefree, gone for my shots being a bit reckless, but then I thought with them [his family] here tonight, just try to be a bit more conservative but make it a proper match.”

This decision to alter his playing style showcased the depth of O'Sullivan's connection with the moment and his desire to create a match worthy of the occasion, especially with his family witnessing the final. By opting for a more measured and deliberate approach, O'Sullivan aimed to elevate the intensity and quality of the game, acknowledging the significance of the event not just as another tournament victory but as a unique opportunity to craft a truly memorable and special performance.

Addressing the lively crowd, which has been a point of contention in the past, Ronnie revealed a change in his perception. "I actually didn't mind it this week. It was all right. I think you just have to embrace it and take it for what it is," he said. Despite the boisterous nature of the audience, he commended the London crowd for their support throughout the tournament.

When asked about the impact of the crowd's noise on his opponent Ali Carter, who expressed displeasure, Ronnie remained unfazed, stating, "No. It is what it is. You have to block it out and you have to just sort of, yeah, you can't let things are going to happen. You just have to just mentally just cope with it. I think that's the most important thing."