Current snooker World No.1 Ronnie O’Sullivan claims every sport craves its own ‘Max Verstappen’

Ronnie O'Sullivan believes A standout player's consistency amps up sports excitement and viewership

Ronnie O'Sullivan and Max Verstappen (Via IMAGO)

Current Snooker No. 1, Ronnie O’Sullivan, understands this thrill of witnessing a dominant force rise to the top. He reflects on the need for every sport to have its Max Verstappen. O’Sullivan’s perspective explores the electrifying impact a dominant player can have on the world of sports.

Max Verstappen, in 2023, has been nothing short of a phenomenon in the world of Formula 1. With an astounding 12 wins out of 14 races, including ten consecutive victories, he has become synonymous with dominance. Unbeaten this season, Red Bull and Verstappen have reigned supreme since late April.

O’Sullivan has a vision for snooker akin to Formula 1’s Verstappen’s leadership with Red Bull. He believes the sport thrives with a dominant figure, drawing fans who yearn to witness their fall from grace. Yet, presently, no one reigns supreme. “I think the sport needs someone,” O’Sullivan remarked. “I think the sport is always more exciting if one player can dominate. Everyone wants to see that player lose.”

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Speaking to Eurosport, the Snooker No.1 said, “Every sport needs one, like Verstappen, he’s winning everything, people just want to see ‘is he going to lose today?’.” He added, “People want to watch the real dominant players to see if somebody can beat them. Snooker needs one of them.”

Discover: Fred Vasseur applauds Max Verstappen for unwavering dominance in F1 over two seasons, claims ‘that’s just mega’

Ronnie O’Sullivan believes that everyone loves to watch someone take on the dominant force

Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc (Credits: Planet F1)

While O’Sullivan may hold the top spot in snooker, he recognizes that true excitement in sports often comes from the chase – the pursuit of excellence and the possibility of an underdog toppling the titan. In this regard, having a player who can lead the way, much like Verstappen is doing in Formula 1 for over two seasons now.

Verstappen’s unparalleled lead of 145 points over his nearest championship rival is a testament to his unrivaled supremacy. He stands on the cusp of securing his third championship title, a feat achievable in just two more races. Verstappen’s relentless pursuit of victory recently saw him shatter Sebastian Vettel‘s record of nine consecutive wins, further showcasing his status as a dominant force.

Max Verstappen competing in the 2023 F1 World Championship… pic.twitter.com/vDixNVVYn2
— ESPN F1 (@ESPNF1) September 4, 2023

The Dutchman’s winning margin of approximately 20 seconds on average is a stark reminder of his relentless pace and dominance. Even early-season competition from his teammate, Sergio Perez, couldn’t halt Verstappen’s severe charge. Perez had to concede as Verstappen consistently rewrote the record books.

In snooker, O’Sullivan hopes to witness a similar ascent to dominance from a young player within the sport’s ranks. He identifies promising talents like Ben Mertens, Luca Brecel, and Si Jiahui but yearns for one of them to rise to the occasion and establish themselves as the dominant force.