Ronnie O'Sullivan made his Snooker 900 debut at the John Virgo Trophy this weekend, a four-man event featuring O'Sullivan, Stephen Hendry, John Higgins, and Mark Williams. 4k) for the victory. The trophy was named after John Virgo, who died in February and was due to work at the event, with his daughter Brook-Leah and son Gary attending to present it.
Snooker 900 is a fast-paced format with 15-minute frames, shot clocks, a spotted cue ball, and amended rules like ball-in-hand for a foul. It is increasingly attracting top professionals and aims to bring a new, younger audience to snooker through events like the Creator Clash with influencers.
I haven't been feeling good for the last three years but over the last two months I have been feeling good. The venues in Ireland are brilliant but Goffs in particular, the atmosphere is electric.
John [Virgo] was like a second dad to me and this weekend is all about keeping his name going. His son and daughter are here watching, I hope they have enjoyed it.
I am gutted I could not put on a show tonight against Ronnie for this crowd. Listen, I thought Ronnie was hitting the ball great tonight and there was nothing I could do.
Stephen for me is the greatest player I've ever seen, ever played. He doesn't play much these days, so for him to get his cue out of his case is a privilege. His middle pocket potting is still unbelievable. It took me back years ago. There was no weakness. His middle pocket potting is still unbelievable. To be on the same table as him is a privilege.