In a candid and emotional interview that has sent ripples through the snooker world, former world champion Shaun Murphy has opened up about a decades-long rift with the sport’s most iconic figure, Ronnie O’Sullivan. Speaking with striking honesty, Murphy revealed a personal episode that has shaped his feelings toward “The Rocket” since childhood: “Ronnie verbally abused me when I was 12—and I’ve never forgiven him.”
The revelation provides a fresh layer of complexity to the long-suspected tension between two of snooker’s biggest names. While both players have publicly maintained a professional rivalry on the table, Murphy’s latest comments suggest that the animosity runs much deeper, rooted not in sporting competition, but in a formative personal encounter.
A Childhood Encounter That Left a Mark
Murphy, now 43 and a respected voice in the game, recalled the incident during his early years in junior snooker. “I looked up to Ronnie,” Murphy said. “He was already a star, and I was just a kid trying to find my place. What happened that day stuck with me ever since. He humiliated me in front of others—I was only 12. That kind of thing stays with you.”
Though Murphy did not provide specific details of the incident, he emphasized its lasting emotional impact. It’s not the first time athletes have admitted to holding onto childhood slights, but rarely does it come with such an open callout of a peer—especially one as decorated and revered as O’Sullivan.
Admiration Meets Resentment
Despite the emotional weight of his revelation, Murphy was quick to clarify that his criticism does not negate his admiration for O’Sullivan’s on-table brilliance. “I still think Ronnie is the greatest player the game has ever seen. He’s a genius,” he admitted. “But genius doesn’t excuse poor behaviour. And when you’ve got a platform as big as his, it comes with responsibility.”
Murphy’s comments touch on a broader and long-standing debate: has Ronnie O’Sullivan done enough off the table to support the growth and professionalism of snooker?
O’Sullivan, a seven-time world champion, has often expressed mixed feelings about the sport, frequently criticising snooker’s governing bodies and occasionally downplaying his own achievements. While his raw talent and mercurial style have attracted millions of fans, some within the sport—Murphy now among them—believe O’Sullivan could have done more as an ambassador.
Hero or Missed Opportunity?
The question Murphy raises—whether Ronnie is a hero or a missed opportunity—is not a new one, but it gains new weight in light of these personal revelations.
Supporters of O’Sullivan argue that his authenticity, rebellious streak, and genius have redefined the image of snooker, making it more accessible and appealing to younger audiences. “He brought the cool factor back to snooker,” says former pro and pundit Neal Foulds. “You can’t manufacture what Ronnie has. It’s instinctive.”
But critics, including Murphy, point to O’Sullivan’s often dismissive comments about tournaments, fellow players, and the sport itself as examples of neglecting the role of a true ambassador. “You can’t be the face of a sport and simultaneously be its loudest detractor,” Murphy said. “Imagine what he could’ve done if he truly embraced that role.”
The Cost of Speaking Out
Murphy’s decision to publicly address his long-held resentment is both brave and risky. In a sport known for its traditional values and quiet diplomacy, airing grievances so openly may not sit well with everyone. Already, social media has been divided—some fans applauding Murphy for his honesty, others accusing him of harbouring a grudge for too long.
Yet, it’s hard to ignore the emotional authenticity behind his words. This isn’t just a petty rivalry or media soundbite—it’s a window into how a single moment in youth can shape a lifetime of interactions.
“It’s not about bitterness,” Murphy clarified. “It’s about honesty. And maybe by talking about this now, it starts a bigger conversation about respect in sport—especially for young players.”
Moving Forward: Reconciliation or Cold War?
Could this be a step toward reconciliation? That remains uncertain. O’Sullivan has yet to respond publicly to Murphy’s comments, and given his unpredictable nature, it’s unclear whether he will choose to address them at all.
Still, some see an opportunity for healing. “Both these men have given so much to the game,” said former world champion Ken Doherty. “It would be a shame if this issue remained unresolved forever.”
Murphy himself doesn’t sound hopeful. “I don’t expect an apology,” he said. “But I do think it’s important people understand that talent doesn’t excuse everything. Respect matters.”
Final Thoughts
Shaun Murphy’s interview is more than just a personal airing of grievances—it’s a statement about accountability, legacy, and the responsibility that comes with being a sporting icon. Whether Ronnie O’Sullivan is remembered purely as a genius or as a flawed hero may ultimately depend on how he responds—not just to Murphy, but to the role he continues to play in snooker’s story.
For now, the rift remains. But so too does the hope that even after decades, old wounds might eventually heal.
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