Snooker’s Murphy Urges O’Sullivan to Emulate Tennis Greats: Shaun Murphy Calls on Ronnie O’Sullivan to Mirror Grace of Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, Sparking Debate on Sportsmanship and Ambassadorship in Snooker
Shaun Murphy, one of snooker’s most outspoken and respected voices, has reignited debate within the sport after calling on Ronnie O’Sullivan to follow the example of tennis legends Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic. The 2005 World Champion, never shy of sharing his opinion, suggested that O’Sullivan’s unrivalled cueing brilliance should be matched by a greater sense of grace, sportsmanship, and ambassadorship—qualities he believes are essential to snooker’s global growth.
Murphy’s comments, made in a candid interview this week, immediately caught the attention of fans and fellow professionals. He drew parallels with tennis, a sport that has long championed the idea of its greatest players as role models and global icons. “When you look at Federer and Djokovic,” Murphy said, “you see athletes who not only dominate their sport technically, but also carry themselves with dignity, humility, and a sense of responsibility to inspire others. That’s what elevates them into cultural icons beyond just their wins. I would love to see Ronnie embrace that role for snooker.”
The remarks come against the backdrop of O’Sullivan’s continuing dominance. At 49 years of age, the “Rocket” remains the sport’s biggest draw, holding multiple records including most World Championship titles in the modern era. His genius on the table is beyond dispute, with even Murphy admitting he is “the most naturally gifted cueist we’ve ever seen.” Yet O’Sullivan’s career has also been defined by controversies, blunt interviews, and occasional criticisms of the sport itself.
Murphy’s suggestion was not made out of malice, but rather from a blend of rivalry and admiration. He acknowledged that O’Sullivan has already done more than anyone to keep snooker in the public eye, but argued that his legacy could be even greater if he embraced the mantle of ambassador more wholeheartedly. “Ronnie’s brilliance has carried snooker to millions, but imagine if he consistently projected the same aura of respect and humility that Federer did in tennis. He could leave a blueprint for generations to follow,” Murphy added.
Predictably, the comments have sparked debate among fans. Some sided with Murphy, agreeing that O’Sullivan’s occasional dismissiveness—whether about tournaments, opponents, or snooker’s governing bodies—has at times overshadowed his achievements. Others countered that O’Sullivan’s authenticity is what makes him unique and beloved, pointing out that Federer and Djokovic represent a very different sporting culture.
Former professionals also weighed in. Ken Doherty, the 1997 World Champion, remarked that O’Sullivan “is snooker’s Federer on the table—pure elegance, genius, and creativity. But he’s also unapologetically himself off the table. That’s part of his appeal.” Meanwhile, pundit Neal Foulds suggested that O’Sullivan’s mercurial personality is inseparable from his success: “If you take away Ronnie’s edge, you might not get the same Rocket we’ve watched for three decades.”
For O’Sullivan himself, the comparison to tennis greats is nothing new. He has previously acknowledged Federer as an athlete he admires, but he has also made clear that he does not seek to be a “poster boy” for the sport, often describing himself as a competitor first and foremost. Whether Murphy’s call will resonate with him remains uncertain.
Beyond the personal dynamics, Murphy’s comments raise broader questions about snooker’s future. The sport has fought hard to expand its global footprint, especially in Asia, and its governing bodies often highlight the importance of its leading stars as ambassadors. With O’Sullivan in the twilight of his career, the debate over his legacy—both as a player and as a representative of the sport—will only intensify.
Ultimately, Murphy’s words underline the complex relationship between admiration and rivalry. He and O’Sullivan have clashed many times on the baize, yet Murphy’s latest remarks reveal deep respect for his rival’s unmatched ability. By invoking Federer and Djokovic, Murphy has added another layer to the conversation about what makes not just a champion, but a true sporting icon.
Whether O’Sullivan chooses to take on that mantle, or continues to carve his own unpredictable path, remains to be seen. But as long as he keeps thrilling audiences with his cueing artistry, the Rocket will remain at the heart of snooker’s story—and the debates that come with it.
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