Judd Trump believes the snooker world quickly moves on when Ronnie O’Sullivan steps away from the game, a testament to the relentless pace of the professional circuit. Despite O’Sullivan’s immense popularity, his absences barely register as tournaments unfold, according to Trump.
O’Sullivan’s appearance at the German Masters marks his first competitive outing since a first-round defeat at the UK Championship in December. Before Tuesday’s victory, a win hadn’t come since November, highlighting a surprisingly quiet period for the snooker legend.
The Rocket’s withdrawal from The Masters earlier this month barely impacted the tournament’s momentum, Trump observed. The event continued to captivate audiences, seemingly unaffected by the absence of one of its biggest stars.
Trump acknowledged O’Sullivan’s draw for fans, stating his presence elevates events for local audiences eager to witness his skill. However, he emphasized that the competition’s intensity often overshadows individual absences as the rounds progress.
O’Sullivan’s infrequent tournament schedule is a point of discussion, with Trump suggesting bookmakers rely heavily on reputation when setting odds. Despite a recent drought in titles – his last ranking win came in January 2024 – the Rocket consistently remains among the favorites.
Trump believes this positioning isn’t based on current form, but rather on the enduring power of O’Sullivan’s name and the unpredictable nature of his game. Bookmakers understand that even a slightly off-color O’Sullivan can be devastating.
The veteran player’s brilliance remains undeniable, Trump conceded, predicting O’Sullivan will be a formidable force for decades to come. However, he also pointed out the challenges of maintaining peak sharpness with limited match practice.
A potential semi-final clash between Trump and O’Sullivan looms at the German Masters, adding intrigue to both players’ campaigns. Trump cruised to a 5-0 victory in his opening match, while O’Sullivan overcame Long Zehuang 5-1, showing glimpses of rustiness.
O’Sullivan now faces a challenging last-32 encounter against Ali Carter, a long-time rival. This match will be a crucial test of his form and a chance to build momentum in his quest for a first title of the season.
Trump’s own path continues with a match against Ryan Day, following his dominant opening performance. The German Masters is shaping up to be a compelling event, with both stars aiming to rediscover their best form.
