In an interview with BBC Sport, Robertson explicitly demanded the prohibition of Triangle Chalk, which he blames for frequent miscues and deflections that disrupt play. 'Kicks' occur when the cue ball makes an imperfect contact with the object ball, often costing frames at crucial moments. Robertson stated that Ronnie O'Sullivan remains the only top professional who continues to use the chalk, and he believes its presence undermines the quality of matches.
Robertson revealed that he actively avoids playing O'Sullivan because of the chalk's effects, preferring to face opponents like John Higgins instead. He also imposes a strict ban on the chalk during his practice sessions, telling BBC Sport that no professional will permit the use of Triangle Chalk on their table. Furthermore, Robertson highlighted that the product’s packaging includes a health warning, raising questions about its suitability for professional use.
I would prefer to play John so I don't have to contend with the chalk that Ronnie uses, which should be banned from the game. I don't know how you are allowed to even use it.
On the table, Robertson advanced with a commanding 13-7 win over Chris Wakelin, while John Higgins staged a dramatic fightback to prevail 13-12 after being down 8-3 and 9-4 at earlier stages, as confirmed by BBC Sport. The outcome means Robertson will meet Higgins in the next round, a matchup he welcomes given his concerns about chalk-related issues. BBC Sport observed that the kick problem was evident once again during Higgins’ thrilling decider.
The report noted that Higgins audibly expressed his frustration when the cue ball did not travel as intended, a moment that may have proven costly. Commentator Stephen Hendry drew attention to the chalk during Sunday’s broadcast, pointing out that O'Sullivan uses the old-fashioned variety, linking the incident to the ongoing debate. According to Robertson, almost all professional players now use Taom chalk, which produces fewer kicks and has become the standard on tour.
All the players hate it, it just destroys it. You get kicks, bounces and it makes an absolute mess of the table.
However, a World Snooker Tour spokesperson confirmed there are currently no rules restricting chalk choice, giving players complete freedom. Whether Robertson’s remarks will lead to a formal ban remains uncertain, and the WST has not indicated any immediate changes.
I know he [O'Sullivan] is friends with [artist] Damien Hirst, but it's like he is making artwork with the chalk all over the cloth. I don't think he does it to put off anyone, he is not that way inclined at all. He is about the only player left on tour that uses that chalk - hopefully they bring in a ban.
It is something to bring up. It can really ruin the game and it's not fair for the players who aren't using it.
Shaun Murphy and I would love to see it removed from the face of the Earth.
Even snooker clubs are banning it - it ruins the actual cloth and comes with a health warning label, so why are we using it? I've had people come up to practice with me and they have brought it and I've said 'you're not using that'. No pro allows anyone to use Triangle Chalk on their table.
oh my god
Ronnie uses the old-fashioned chalk