Why O'Sullivan faces battle to stay in world's top 16

Snooker's World Championship without Ronnie O'Sullivan is hard to conceive, after years of him being so often the central figure at the Crucible. But it may not be far away. The prospect seems almost unthinkable, with the 50-year-old a near ever present in the top 16 of the world rankings since he became a professional in 1992. However, the seven-time winner at the Crucible now faces a battle to maintain his place within the 16-man group guaranteed automatic entry to the World Championship. Already down at number 13 in the world rankings, O'Sullivan fell in the first round of the Northern Ireland Open on Monday and is in need of prize money that would solidify his place among the current world elite.

Still seeking the eighth world title that would mean he surpasses former rival Stephen Hendry, O'Sullivan has said he would prefer to retire rather than ever enter qualifying events. With a challenging decision potentially looming, BBC Sport takes a look at how close one of the sport's greats is to leaving the game forever. O'Sullivan has had a quiet start to the 2026-27 season, with a run to the semi-finals of the Wuhan Open the only significant result in his five tournaments to date. Two last-16 finishes preceded his final-four finish at that event, but he has been