Ronnie O'Sullivan's biggest nemesis gives fresh update on feud ahead of World Snooker Championship

Lewis Henderson
Thu, 16 Apr 2026 12:16:53 +0000

Ronnie O'Sullivan's biggest nemesis, Ali Carter, has given a fresh update on the pair's feud ahead of the 2026 World Snooker Championship.

Carter will be making his 22nd Crucible appearance, having faced O'Sullivan in six out of his previous 21 visits.

He faced the Rocket in two finals, losing both, and exited the first round last year, in a comfortable 10-4 victory for O'Sullivan.

The only victory Carter holds was in 2018, which caused a stir in the world of snooker following the shoulder-barge incident.

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Despite now being on friendlier terms these days, Carter hopes he can avoid his old rival.

He said: "Listen, I don't really want to play Ronnie to be honest with you. I know I'm probably going to get him again.

"I've played him too many times in Sheffield. There is no animosity there now between Ronnie and I. We've both grown up a bit now.

"I'd like to get home and chill out for a few days. I don't really mind who I play, but hopefully on Monday or Tuesday next week would be ideal."

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O'Sullivan's first round tie will be against He Guoqiang, while Carter has the tough task of fending off four-time World Champions John Higgins.

The Rocket will commute from Dublin to compete at this year's World Snooker Championship, with the snooker legend using the Irish capital as his base for tax purposes.

The prestigious tournament begins on Saturday at Sheffield's Crucible Theatre, running through to May 4.

Rather than staying in England, the 50-year-old will travel back and forth between Ireland and the UK throughout the competition.

O'Sullivan disclosed his Dublin arrangement following his triumph at the inaugural John Virgo Trophy, where he comprehensively defeated Higgins in Sunday's final.

The Rocket currently spends around three months annually in Ireland, having made it a regular residence over the past year.

The seven-time world champion secured his latest silverware with a commanding 6-0 whitewash against his Scottish rival at Goffs in Ireland.

O'Sullivan spoke warmly about his connection to the country after lifting the trophy.

He said: "The crowd here was amazing. Any venue we play in Ireland, but especially here at Goffs, the atmosphere is electric. Amazing.

"I mean I live here quite a lot now. I spend three months a year here. I've always loved coming to Ireland. It has always had a special place in my heart.

"But having lived here the last year or so, it's been great. I wouldn't have it any other way."