Seven times Masters Snooker champion Ronnie O'Sullivan says he 'does not want to be defined by snooker' following his 1st round win at the prestigious event at London's Alexandra Palace. O'Sullivan beat talented Belgian Luca Brecel 6-1 in a glittering display that included two century breaks.
In an interview immediately after the match O'Sullivan said 'When I say I don't care I mean I've got my life in perspective. I don't want to be defined by Snooker or disappointed by it, I think I've enjoyed the last 10-12 years of my career more than I ever have. I wish i'd have done it years ago.'
READ MORE: Ronnie O'Sullivan issues opinion on snooker's match-fixing probe as chiefs hit back
Whilst speaking to the BBC O'Sullivan opened up on his approach to the game, 'I've spent years getting disappointed by it and so now I try not to get disappointed and it's freed me up a bit'.
'I'm still competitive. If I take up anything I'd always want to be better, that's just natural. So the players can expect me to keep coming for more. I ain't going away just yet.'
O'Sullivan's quest for an 8th masters title is well on course and has been handed a boost with early exits for previous champions Neil Robertson, Mark Selby and John Higgins. O'Sullivan will play either Mark Williams or David Gilbert in the quarter-finals.
READ NEXT:
RTE viewers left with same complaint after Roy Keane appears on Tommy Tiernan Show
Robbie Keane pays tribute after death of Claudine's uncle following hit and run
David Moran has another year in him for Kerry, says Kerins O'Rahillys boss William Harmon
Glen hang on to book All-Ireland final spot with Kilmacud Crokes
Jack Kennedy sent to hospital after nasty fall at Naas sees Top Bandit lose life
Get the latest sports headlines straight to your inbox by signing up for free email alerts