Article by Romeo Ene – Published Monday, April 27, 2026 9:46 p.m. / Updated Monday, April 27, 2026 9:56 p.m.
Seven-time world champion Ronnie O'Sullivan (50 years old) was eliminated in the second round of the snooker WC after being dramatically defeated by John Higgins (50 years old), score 13-12.
“Racheta” led 9-4, but the Scot made an incredible comeback and the end of the match was unexpected.
Higgins had an opportunity to close out the match (12-11) but missed and it went to the decider where Ronnie had his chance but missed a relatively simple shot and was then beaten.
Ronnie O'Sullivan lost dramatically to Higgins and is OUT of the World Cup
O'Sullivan took the defeat in stride, revealing he had already booked his return flight to his home base in Ireland for Monday morning, having been so convinced ahead of this caliber duel that he would lose the match.
“I have to be honest, I had an early morning flight as I wasn't sure before the start if I would get to play the third session,” said O'Sullivan, quoted by The Guardian.
“I was realistic about my chances. I haven't played big games for two years. I knew that a duel with the best players, in a situation of maximum pressure, would expose me in one way or another. To be honest, I was quite shocked that I was able to make it a close match.”
“It's definitely one of the biggest wins. I'm glad I was in the game in the third session because after the first two, I don't know how I was only leading 9-7.
Ronnie was by far the better player. The atmosphere was incredible. Honestly, the standing ovation I received at the entrance disturbed me. I felt a little lost, but I think Ronnie fed off that energy and settled right back at the table”, Higgins also said.
