Neil Robertson recently clarified his remarks about Ronnie O’Sullivan’s performance in tournaments, stating that his comments were taken out of context. Robertson mentioned that O’Sullivan had been playing poorly in early matches of some events but was still able to win due to mistakes made by opponents. He had spoken to O’Sullivan and cleared the air, with O’Sullivan understanding the sentiment behind Robertson’s words. Robertson praised Mark Williams for his win over O’Sullivan in the Tour Championship final, highlighting Williams’ ability to finish the job and handle pressure.
With O’Sullivan and Williams winning seven trophies between them this season, John Higgins also remains a top player, despite not claiming major titles in recent years. Robertson acknowledged the ability of these players to adapt to conditions and handle pressure, which has been instrumental in their continued success. He reflected on the shared experience of playing in clubs and pro-ams, where players had to find ways to win despite challenging circumstances. Robertson believes that O’Sullivan, Higgins, and Williams possess a unique ability to win matches even when they are not playing their best, showcasing a killer instinct that sets them apart.
Robertson acknowledged a drop in his own ranking and the need to go through qualifiers to reach the World Championship this year. Despite his recent form slump, Robertson remains optimistic about his game and is focused on practicing harder to improve his performance. He reflected on a successful season two years ago, where he won multiple titles but admitted to becoming content and satisfied, leading to errors in crucial matches. Robertson is determined to approach the qualifiers as an opportunity to sharpen his skills and prepare for the Crucible. He noted that being a seed in tournaments can be challenging, as the competition at the top level is fierce with many talented players vying for success.
As Robertson prepares for the World Championship, he recognizes the importance of staying focused and maintaining a positive mindset. He emphasized the need to continue working hard and avoiding complacency in order to compete at the highest level. The Australian player is determined to regain his form and challenge the top players in the sport. With the support of his fans and a renewed sense of determination, Robertson is looking forward to the upcoming challenges on the snooker circuit. As he continues to strive for success, Robertson remains committed to honing his skills and competing at the highest level of the sport.
