Ronnie O’Sullivan has admitted that reaching the pinnacle of snooker has been a bit of an anti-climax, but he is still striving for more success and has enlisted the help of a coach ahead of the World Championship. The Rocket begins his bid for an eighth world title on Wednesday, looking to set an outright modern record as he currently sits alongside Stephen Hendry on seven Crucible crowns. Despite being level with the Scot, the Englishman is almost universally considered to be the greatest player ever, although he says it is not actually nailed on.
Results for: World Championship
Barry Hawkins, after a disappointing loss in last year’s World Championship qualifying round, has experienced a remarkable turnaround, culminating in an improved mindset and consistent performances. The 44-year-old has developed a newfound confidence in his abilities, acknowledging that he belongs among the world’s best. This transformation has been a gradual process, involving hard work and collaboration with various coaches. As Hawkins prepares to face Ryan Day in the Crucible opener, he reflects on his journey and the ongoing pursuit of improvement.
Four-time world champion John Higgins believes that the World Snooker Championship’s departure from the Crucible is inevitable, despite the iconic venue’s historical significance and the potential for regret among future winners. The current contract for the tournament expires in 2027, with speculation surrounding a potential switch to destinations such as Saudi Arabia or China.
Indian chess has witnessed a remarkable rise with the emergence of young prodigies, led by the 17-year-old Dommaraju Gukesh. Gukesh’s exceptional performance in the Candidates tournament has earned him the right to challenge Chinese grandmaster Ding Liren for the World Championship. India’s chess ecosystem is thriving with talented young players and experienced mentors, creating an environment that fosters growth and innovation. Gukesh’s success has reignited excitement for Indian chess and set the stage for an exciting India-China showdown in the upcoming World Championship.
Jimmy White and Alan McManus have both condemned Hossein Vafaei’s criticism of the Crucible, with White branding the comments ‘pathetic’. Vafaei had given a negative assessment of the Sheffield venue after losing to Judd Trump in the first round of the World Championship, claiming it smelled bad and was poorly maintained.
Dommaraju Gukesh, a prodigious 17-year-old chess grandmaster, has achieved a remarkable feat by winning the Candidates Chess tournament in Toronto. This victory qualifies him to challenge reigning world champion Ding Liren for the title. Gukesh’s accomplishment marks him as one of the youngest players to ever be in contention for the world championship.
17-year-old Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh has made history by winning the Candidates Chess Tournament, becoming the youngest-ever challenger to the world title. Gukesh’s victory surpasses the previous record held by Garry Kasparov for 40 years.
Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Erik Karlsson will join fellow countrymen and Buffalo Sabres players Rasmus Dahlin and Victor Olofsson in representing Sweden at the World Championship tournament in Czechia from May 10-26. This will mark Karlsson’s first appearance in international competition since 2016.
Four-time world snooker champion Mark Selby has hinted at the possibility of retiring this year after his shock first-round exit at the Crucible. Selby, 40, lost 10-6 to debutant Joe O’Connor, marking his earliest exit from the tournament since 2018. After the match, Selby expressed frustration with his performance and admitted that he needed help on the mental side of the game. He also spoke about the pressure he puts on himself and how it has hindered his performance in the past.
Grandmaster Gukesh D has emerged victorious from the FIDE Candidates 2024, a stepping stone towards his ultimate goal of claiming the World Championship title. Inspired by legendary Indian player Viswanathan Anand, Gukesh is determined to push himself to the limits and secure India’s first-ever World Chess Championship victory.