BREAKING NEWS: Ronnie O’Sullivan Announces New Career Before Leaving the UK, Delighting Fans
In a surprising but heartwarming turn of events, snooker legend Ronnie O’Sullivan has announced his transition into a new career just before his departure from the United Kingdom. Widely regarded as the greatest snooker player of all time, O’Sullivan’s decision marks the end of a golden chapter in the sport — and the beginning of a promising new journey that has thrilled his loyal fan base.
Speaking at a farewell press conference held at London’s Alexandra Palace, the seven-time World Snooker Champion revealed that he will be focusing on mentoring and youth development in sports, launching the Ronnie O’Sullivan Sports Academy — a project he describes as his “true calling after competitive play.”
“It’s time to give back,” O’Sullivan said, visibly emotional. “Snooker gave me a life I could never have imagined, but I’ve also seen many young people with talent who never get the opportunity to shine. I want to be part of changing that — not just in snooker, but in sport generally.”
The academy, which will initially be based in Spain, where O’Sullivan plans to relocate, will focus on nurturing young talent in snooker, tennis, athletics, and other disciplines. The move has been met with widespread praise from both the sports community and his millions of fans worldwide.
O’Sullivan, 49, has long expressed his passion for helping youth and mental health advocacy. In recent years, he has spoken openly about the pressures of elite sports and the importance of psychological support. These themes will feature prominently in his new venture, with the academy promising not only high-level coaching but also mental wellness programs and life skills development.
“I know what it’s like to be under the spotlight from a young age, to deal with pressure, expectations, and setbacks,” he said. “If I can help the next generation handle those things better than I did, then I’ll consider it a success.”
The announcement comes just weeks after O’Sullivan made headlines with his seventh UK Championship victory and a record-extending 40th ranking title, proving he could still dominate the table. However, he has made it clear that his decision to step back from full-time competition is not about decline, but about purpose.
Fans have responded with an outpouring of love and gratitude on social media. Hashtags like #ThankYouRonnie and #RocketLegacy have been trending on X (formerly Twitter), with many supporters applauding him for using his platform to inspire the next generation.
Former rivals and fellow legends of the game, including Stephen Hendry and Mark Williams, have also expressed their admiration. “Ronnie’s done everything there is in snooker. This next step shows his greatness isn’t limited to the table,” Hendry said.
As O’Sullivan prepares to begin this exciting new chapter abroad, he leaves the UK not just as a sports icon but as a role model ready to shape the future.
“It’s not goodbye,” he smiled at the end of his speech. “It’s just a new start — and I can’t wait to see what comes next.”