Ronnie O'Sullivan received a standing ovation from the crowd following his semi-final win at the World Grand Prix on Saturday.
A reaction normally saved for after a final, those in attendance were aware they had seen something special from the Rocket.
O'Sullivan was at his ultimate best as he beat Ding Junhui 6-1 at the Morningside Arena in Leicester.
He hit four century breaks in a scintillating display to reach Sunday's final against Judd Trump.
Ronnie O'Sullivan put on a show against Ding Junhui
Getty
O'Sullivan put on a show for the crowd and left the pundits stunned at what they had seen.
After mopping up the final frame, the majority inside the arena rose to their feet to applaud the seven-time world champion.
ITV presenter Jill Douglas noted the unusual nature of the reaction.
She said: "In a semi-final, you don't see this very often, but a standing ovation at the end of the match.
"The whole arena stood and applauded because they knew they had seen something special."
O'Sullivan is in line to win his second tournament in the space of a week.
He won his record-extending eighth Masters last Sunday when he beat Ali Carter 10-7 in the final.
The 48-year-old was heavily critical of his own performance at Alexandra Palace and has been downbeat again this week.
He has admitted in several interviews that he is not enjoying playing and intends to take a break.
But O'Sullivan keeps winning and is the favourite heading into Sunday's clash against Trump.
He was even able to praise his own game following the win over Ding, admitting: "I felt alright tonight.
"Just tidy. Just every shot, I felt in control. I wasn't bothered about big breaks.
"I felt like I could get the ball to go where I wanted it to go most times.
"I felt good over the shot. I felt like if I was given a chance, I might make something.
"I felt relaxed and confident tonight. I'm up for every match I play, I play the table, play the balls and it was a big occasion playing Ding.
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Ronnie O'Sullivan received a standing ovation following his win
ITV
"I knew I had to play well. I've played a few sessions where I've played good stuff, but it was up there.
"People pay good money to come and watch. Sometimes it is hard to keep the stamina.
"No matter what I say or how I feel, I always put on a professional display mentally.
“I don't want people to think I'm not trying.
Ronnie O'Sullivan is through to Sunday's World Grand Prix final
Getty
"It is tough. I'm trying my hardest even when the game comes difficult to you, but it felt nice tonight.
"The crowd enjoyed it and I enjoyed it.
"That's what keeps you coming back when you put on a good performance."
