"Ex-World No. 2 Reflects on Ronnie O'Sullivan's Critique: 'He’s Shown Me How Much I Have to Improve'"

Table of Contents

1. Reality Check for Stephen Maguire
2. Match Details
3. Praise for O’Sullivan
4. Possible Grudge Against O’Sullivan
5. Ranking Struggles
6. Upcoming Match

Snooker star Stephen Maguire has acknowledged that his recent 5-0 defeat to Ronnie O’Sullivan served as a harsh reality check.

The two British players faced off in the third round last month, with O’Sullivan securing a dominant victory.

Stephen Maguire humorously suggested that he must have ‘angered’ Ronnie O’SullivanCredit: Getty Maguire has not defeated O’Sullivan since 2012Credit: Getty

The Rocket triumphed in the match with breaks of 134, 70, 63, and 85 in China.

He received high praise from his opponent, with Maguire telling Metro : “Ronnie was phenomenal against me.

“Ronnie was simply incredible. He made me realize how far behind I am.

“So I’ve been practicing, just trying to improve.”

Maguire has not secured a win against O’Sullivan since 2012 and now jokes that the Rocket may be holding a grudge against him.

“He does this to me every time,” he added.

“I have no idea what I did to upset him years ago because he always performs at his best when I play against him; he’s consistently on point. He’s great to watch.”

Maguire achieved a career-high ranking as world No. 2 between 2008 and 2010, trailing behind O’Sullivan.

Currently ranked No. 25 in the world, he is striving to reclaim a position in the top 16.

Reflecting on what is hindering his progress, he stated: “It’s challenging, honestly. I’m not sure.

“If I knew what the issue was, I’d resolve it. It’s tough out there. Everyone is skilled. It’s a demanding game.

“There are many significant tournaments approaching, so every match is crucial.

“Especially considering my current ranking; I’m not in a good spot right now, so I’m working hard to get back up there.”

Maguire’s next match is against Si Jiahui on Wednesday.