Overview

• Ronnie O’Sullivan, a seven-time world champion, is scheduled to play Ali Carter in the first round at the Crucible Theatre this afternoon.
• O’Sullivan has not competed since January, citing mental health struggles and fears of having lost his competitive edge.
• He has acknowledged the possibility of a last-minute withdrawal, describing his participation as a personal victory in itself.
• O’Sullivan and Carter’s rivalry, marked by past confrontations, adds tension to the match, with Carter qualifying as a two-time finalist.
• If O’Sullivan competes, he will aim to surpass Stephen Hendry’s record of seven world titles, despite expressing doubts about his form and readiness.