Ronnie O'Sullivan's feuds from star who didn't forgive him to being ignored for three years

Ronnie O’Sullivan, widely considered one of the greatest snooker players of all time, is currently spending much of his time away from the UK. He will not be competing in the Players Championship this week, continuing a pattern of reduced participation in UK events since last December. However, his career has been marked by a series of memorable clashes with fellow professionals, both on and off the table.

A History of Disagreements

Stephen Hendry

A significant feud with Stephen Hendry began at the 2006 UK Championship. O’Sullivan was losing 4-1 when he decided to concede the match mid-frame, shaking Hendry’s hand and leaving the arena. Four years later, O’Sullivan revealed that Hendry had not spoken to him for three years following this incident. Despite this, O’Sullivan has stated his respect for Hendry, calling him “the greatest snooker player of all time,” and the two have since reconciled, even appearing together on Hendry’s YouTube channel.

Did You Know? Ronnie O’Sullivan and Stephen Hendry’s feud lasted for three years, with Hendry reportedly refusing to speak to O’Sullivan after the 2006 UK Championship incident.

Shaun Murphy

Shaun Murphy has stated that he has never forgiven Ronnie O’Sullivan for verbal abuse he experienced at the age of 12. Murphy acknowledges O’Sullivan’s unmatched playing ability but maintains that the past incident has left a lasting impact on their relationship.

Darren Morgan

Welsh player Darren Morgan also experienced a disagreement with O’Sullivan. Morgan criticized O’Sullivan’s behavior during a match, accusing him of acting like a “petulant child” after he threw the balls off the table. This led to a confrontation in the restroom, where both men exchanged strong words, but ultimately resolved the issue with laughter.

Ali Carter

Perhaps O’Sullivan’s most ongoing rivalry is with Ali Carter. Their clashes date back to the 2018 World Championship, where O’Sullivan appeared to shoulder-barge Carter. The tension escalated at the 2024 Masters, where O’Sullivan was accused of unsportsmanlike conduct, responding with a heated press conference. While a slight reconciliation occurred at the 2025 World Snooker Championship, reports indicate they are currently not on speaking terms.

Expert Insight: The repeated instances of conflict throughout O’Sullivan’s career suggest a complex personality and a willingness to challenge established norms within the sport, potentially contributing to both his success and his controversies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What caused the initial falling out between Ronnie O’Sullivan and Stephen Hendry?

The feud began at the 2006 UK Championship when O’Sullivan conceded the match mid-frame, shaking Hendry’s hand and leaving the arena. Hendry then did not speak to O’Sullivan for three years.

Has Shaun Murphy forgiven Ronnie O’Sullivan?

No, Shaun Murphy has stated he has never forgiven O’Sullivan for verbal abuse he experienced at age 12.

What was the nature of the dispute between Ronnie O’Sullivan and Ali Carter?

Their rivalry has involved on-table incidents, such as a shoulder-barge at the 2018 World Championship, and off-table confrontations, including accusations of unsportsmanlike conduct and a heated press conference.

Given Ronnie O’Sullivan’s reduced presence on the UK snooker circuit, how might his legacy be perceived by future generations of fans?

Ronnie O’Sullivan’s feuds from star who didn’t forgive him to being ignored for three years