O’Sullivan ‘miles past his best’ but ominous warning sent to rivals

Mark Williams has emphasised just how much of a stranglehold Ronnie O’Sullivan has over his rivals, despite being ‘miles past his best’. The snooker great sealed yet another title after a stunning performance to see off Judd Trump 10-6 on Sunday to clinch his fourth Champion of Champions title.

It was a fascinating battle against Trump, having produced a break-building clinic to see off his great rival in Bolton. O’Sullivan was cruising at 6-1 before fellow Englishman Trump brilliantly fought back to 7-6, which saw him seal a stunning seventh maximum break of his career.

But as always, seven-time world champion O’Sullivan came through in style by taking the final three frames without reply – and banking £150,000 in the process.

And following his latest incredible achievement, Williams has hailed O’Sullivan’s dominance in snooker despite claiming his rival is past his peak.

The Rocket – who produced incredible moments in the final against Trump, including three centuries and further breaks of 96, 88, 85 and 81 – is now favourite to land an eighth UK Championship title.

And he sent a warning to his rivals before he begins his quest for more glory: “I’ve got seven of them so I suppose eight sounds good,” he said. “I could always do with another one I suppose.”