Ronnie O’Sullivan, born on December 5, 1975, in Wordsley, West Midlands, England, is widely regarded as one of the most talented and accomplished snooker players in history. Known for his rapid playing style, he earned the nickname “The Rocket.” Throughout his career, O’Sullivan has secured numerous titles, including seven World Snooker Championships, a record eight Masters titles, and a record eight UK Championship titles, totaling 23 Triple Crown titles—the most by any player. He also holds the record for the most ranking titles, with 41, and has held the top ranking position multiple times.
Early Life and Education
Ronald Antonio O’Sullivan was born to Ronald John and Maria O’Sullivan, who owned a chain of sex shops in the Soho area of London. His mother is originally from Sicily, and O’Sullivan spent childhood holidays in her native village near Agrigento. He was raised in the Manor Road area of Chigwell, Essex, where he continues to reside. O’Sullivan attended Wanstead High School, but his primary focus from a young age was snooker. He began playing at the age of seven and quickly demonstrated exceptional talent. By the age of nine, he had won his first club tournament, and at ten, he made his first competitive century break. At 13, he clinched the British Under-16 Championship, signaling his arrival as a prodigious talent in the snooker world.
Personal Life
O’Sullivan’s personal life has been marked by significant challenges. In 1992, when he was 16, his father was sentenced to life imprisonment for murder, serving 18 years before his release in 2010. Four years later, in 1996, his mother was sentenced to a year in prison for tax evasion, leaving O’Sullivan to care for his eight-year-old sister, Danielle. These events had a profound impact on him, contributing to well-documented struggles with depression, substance abuse, and fluctuating weight. Despite these challenges, O’Sullivan has sought to better himself, working with sports psychologist Dr. Steve Peters since 2011 to manage his mental health and maintain focus in his career.
Beyond snooker, O’Sullivan is an avid runner, having achieved a personal best of 34 minutes and 54 seconds in 10 km races, ranking him among the top amateur runners in the UK. He is also passionate about cooking, particularly Chinese cuisine, and has appeared on the BBC’s “Saturday Kitchen.” Additionally, he enjoys motor racing and has participated in events such as the Volkswagen Racing Cup at Silverstone. O’Sullivan is a supporter of Arsenal FC and has expressed interests in various other sports, including athletics, boxing, and tennis.
Family
O’Sullivan has three children: a daughter named Taylor-Ann, born in 1997 from a two-year relationship with Sally Magnus; and a son and daughter from his relationship with Jo Langley, whom he met at Narcotics Anonymous. In October 2018, he became a grandfather when Taylor-Ann gave birth to a daughter. In 2012, O’Sullivan began dating actress Laila Rouass, and the couple became engaged in 2013. They announced their separation in February 2022 but later reconciled, only to reportedly part ways again in September 2024.
Detailed Bio Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ronald Antonio O’Sullivan |
| Date of Birth | December 5, 1975 |
| Place of Birth | Wordsley, West Midlands, England |
| Height | 5 feet 10 inches (1.78 meters) |
| Parents | Ronald John O’Sullivan (father), Maria O’Sullivan (mother) |
| Professional Debut | 1992 |
| Major Titles | 7× World Champion, 8× Masters Champion, 8× UK Champion |
| Net Worth | Estimated at £15 million as of 2025 |
Career
O’Sullivan turned professional in 1992 at the age of 16. He won 74 of his first 76 qualifying matches, including a record 38 consecutive professional victories. In 1993, he became the youngest-ever winner of a ranking event by securing the UK Championship just before his 18th birthday—a record he still holds. Two years later, he won the Masters at the age of 19, making him the youngest champion in the tournament’s history.
Throughout his career, O’Sullivan has been known for his fast and attacking style of play, earning him the nickname “The Rocket.” He is ambidextrous, able to play proficiently with both hands, which has allowed him to attempt shots that would be challenging for other players. His first official maximum break in 1997, completed in 5 minutes and 8 seconds, holds the record for the fastest maximum break achieved in competitive play. He also holds the record for the total number of century breaks, compiling more than 1,200 in professional competition.
Despite his success, O’Sullivan’s career has been marred by controversies, including disciplinary actions for his behavior and comments. He has been a vocal critic of snooker’s governing bodies and has expressed dissatisfaction with various aspects of the sport. Nevertheless, his talent and contributions to snooker are undeniable, and he continues to be a prominent figure in the sport.
In recent years, O’Sullivan has expanded his endeavors beyond playing snooker. He has worked as a pundit for Eurosport’s snooker coverage, written crime novels and autobiographies, and participated in various media projects. In October 2023, he launched an online snooker course titled “The Rocket Method,” providing in-depth lessons on the game. Additionally, a documentary film titled “Ronnie O’Sullivan: The Edge of Everything” was released in November 2023, highlighting the challenges he has faced both professionally and personally.
O’Sullivan’s career is a testament to his exceptional talent and resilience in the face of personal and professional challenges. His contributions to snooker have left an indelible mark on the sport, inspiring future generations of players.
Social Media Accounts Table
| Platform | Username | Official Link |
|---|---|---|
| @ronnieo147 | https://twitter.com/ronnieo147 | |
| @ronnieo147 | https://www.instagram.com/ronnieo147/ | |
| @RonnieOSullivanSnooker | https://www.facebook.com/RonnieOSullivanSnooker/ |
Latest News
As of February 2025, Ronnie O’Sullivan has withdrawn from the Welsh Open just hours before his scheduled first-round match against Jamie Clarke. This marks the fourth consecutive ranking competition he has missed, leading to concerns about his health. O’Sullivan cited “medical grounds” for his recent absence from the Masters. His last appearance saw him snap his cue in frustration during a Championship League match. Fellow player Shaun Murphy had anticipated O’Sullivan’s potential withdrawal, noting his recent struggles and advocating for mental health support for players. Despite a successful 2024 season with wins in the Masters, O’Sullivan’s ongoing issues have cast doubt on his future participation.
Height and Physical Appearance
Standing at 5 feet 10 inches (1.78 meters), Ronnie O’Sullivan has an athletic build, which he maintains through regular running and fitness routines. He is known for his sharp features and focused demeanor at the snooker table. Over the years, O’Sullivan has sported various hairstyles, reflecting his dynamic personality both on and off the table.
Net Worth as of 2025
As of 2025, Ronnie O’Sullivan’s net worth is estimated to be around £15 million. This wealth has been accumulated through his successful snooker career, including prize money from numerous tournament victories, as well as endorsements, book deals, and appearances. His status as one of the game’s all-time greats has also led to various media opportunities, further contributing to his financial standing.
Ronnie O’Sullivan’s career is a testament to his exceptional talent and resilience in the face of personal and professional challenges. His contributions to snooker have left an indelible mark on the sport, inspiring future generations of players.
FAQs
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What is Ronnie O’Sullivan’s nickname?
- Ronnie O’Sullivan is famously known as “The Rocket” due to his incredibly fast and fluid playing style.
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How many World Snooker Championships has Ronnie O’Sullivan won?
- As of 2025, he has won seven World Snooker Championships.
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What is Ronnie O’Sullivan’s net worth?
- His estimated net worth is £15 million as of 2025, earned through prize money, endorsements, and media appearances.
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Is Ronnie O’Sullivan still playing professional snooker?
- Yes, he continues to compete at the highest level, though he has taken breaks from the sport at various times.
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Does Ronnie O’Sullivan have any hobbies outside of snooker?
- Yes, he is passionate about running and has even competed in amateur running events. He also enjoys writing and has authored books.
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Ronnie O’Sullivan, much like other prominent figures in the entertainment and sports industry, has led a life filled with achievements and challenges. Similarly, Denise Welch has made a significant impact in the world of television and entertainment, overcoming personal struggles while maintaining a successful career.
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Throughout history, many public figures have faced both triumph and adversity in their careers. Salman Rushdie, much like Ronnie O’Sullivan, has had a profound influence in his respective field, navigating controversies while leaving a lasting impact on literature and public discourse.
