Mark Allen was among the snooker stars unimpressed by Ronnie O'Sullivan's apparent lack of sportsmanship after Judd Trump's magical 147 break.
Trump struck a wonderful maximum break when 6-1 down against O'Sullivan in an enthralling Champion of Champions final in Bolton. The 2019 world champion Trump produced the moment of inspiration to give himself a glimmer of hope in a final that had looked increasingly one-sided.
World No.1 and seven-time Crucible king O'Sullivan ultimately claimed his fourth Champion of Champions title with an imperious showing in Sunday evening's climax. But the Rocket has been accused of a lack of 'respect' by Northern Irish star Allen after failing to come forward and congratulate Trump for his seventh career 147.
It is commonplace for opponents to shake hands or fist bump the player who has achieved perfection on the green baize. But after Trump potted 15 reds and 15 blacks before holding his nerve to clear the colours, O'Sullivan remained in his seat rather than coming to congratulate his rival.
Northern Ireland Open champion Allen believes it could be the first time a player has not greeted his opponent after a 147 in 181 professional maximum breaks.
"Glad @kendoherty1997 (Ken Doherty) mentioned in studio @ronnieo147 (O'Sullivan) not shaking @juddtrump hand when making the max," Allen wrote on Twitter. "I know it’s not a rule you have to but I’m confident saying it’s the first time it’s ever happened. 2 secs to show some respect isn’t asking much from someone who so many admire."
Seven-time world champion Stephen Hendry is the only other player to make a maximum against O'Sullivan and also criticised his lack of etiquette against Trump.
"Look, no one took more displeasure in their opponents doing things well against them more than me," Hendry admitted. "But shake the guy's hand. He has made a 147, it's in the final and you are 6-1 up. Shake the guy's hand. It was incredible. When I made the other one against him he had to shake my hand…because it was the end of the match."
Three-time world champion Mark Williams did not share the view of Allen and Hendry, however. When asked on Twitter if he would be bothered by not being congratulated for a maximum, he replied: "Not at all, like putting your hand up when u fluke, why your not sorry get on with it.".
After celebrating his maximum, Trump reduced his deficit to 7-6 in the evening session. But O'Sullivan steamrolled to the title with exquisite breaks of 124, 85 and 81 to provide yet another reminder of why he is still snooker's greatest as he nears his 47th birthday.
