Particle.news
Download on the App Store
14 ARTICLES
·
4w ago

Ronnie O’Sullivan Leads Ali Carter 5-4 in World Snooker Championship Opener

The seven-time champion returned to the Crucible after months away, battling mental struggles and rustiness against his long-time rival.

Image
Image
O’Sullivan, left, said that his return against Carter on Tuesday went “probably a little bit better” than he expected
O'Sullivan and Carter were once friends but that relationship has faded (Photo: PA)

Overview

  • Ronnie O’Sullivan holds a narrow 5-4 overnight lead against Ali Carter after the first session of their best-of-19 first-round match at the 2025 World Snooker Championship.
  • O’Sullivan, returning to competitive play for the first time since January, showed signs of rust but managed a century break and a lead as large as 5-2 before Carter’s late recovery.
  • The match, marked by a warm pre-match handshake despite the pair’s contentious history, saw both players struggle with errors while producing respective breaks of 107.
  • O’Sullivan has openly discussed his mental health challenges, including stage fright and fears of losing his competitive edge, as he pursues a record-breaking eighth world title.
  • The conclusion of the match is scheduled for Wednesday afternoon, with Carter aiming to overturn the deficit and O’Sullivan seeking to advance to the second round.