Ronnie O’Sullivan jealous of snooker opponent despite beating him 6-2 | Other

Ronnie O’Sullivan said he envies the “talent” of some of his Chinese rivals.

After coming out of a series of events, the Racket started working after returning to the table at the International Championship.

The seven-time world champion added to his first-round victory over Mink Nutcharut with an impressive 6-2 victory over He Guoqiang on Monday, losing to the 24-year-old on the two previous occasions they had met.

Speaking after he booked his place in the last 32 in Nanjing, O’Sullivan praised Goqian and spoke of how he envied his opponent’s ability, despite killing him in style.

He explained: “It was a big match for me because he beat me twice when we played. I had to block out that I had lost the previous two and play my game.

“These Chinese guys are so talented. I wish I had their games. They are so technically good. I have this nose. I’m a bit of a street person, and that’s kept me going throughout my career. But I would like to have the technique of the 80 guys on tour.

“The way they throw balls is unbelievable. I can’t potty like them. If I had their technique and club, I would be invincible for the rest of my life.”

In the next round of competition, O’Sullivan will face Pang Junxiu, who is bidding for his first international title, although several other familiar faces have also shown excellent form in the early stages of the tournament.