• World Snooker Championship

Rocket unlikely to retire after Crucible win

ESPN staff
May 8, 2012
Ronnie O'Sullivan's form was superb in his win over Ali Carter © Getty Images
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Ronnie O'Sullivan will take an extended break but is likely to return to the table next season.

O'Sullivan secured world title No. 4 with an 18-11 demolition of Ali Carter. He came into the final with questions to answer about his future after inferring he may retire after the World Championship at the Crucible.

After wrapping up victory, O'Sullivan suggested he may be back again for a crack at title No. 5, but wants an extended break to recharge the batteries.

"I am going to take six months off because family has become the most important thing in my life," he said. "I know there is still snooker left in the tank but leeway has to be given to the players. Let's make it fair."

O'Sullivan paid tribute to sports psychologist Dr Steve Peters, who has been credited with getting the genius back on track.

He said: "I wouldn't be sitting here now if it wasn't for Steve. He's not a psychologist, he's an expert scientist. If I was Man City, I'd go and buy him. I've never needed anyone to tell me how to play snooker, but Steve has taught me my brain is a machine."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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