Ronnie O'Sullivan suffered a 5-3 defeat at the hands of Xiao Guodong in the World Grand Prix last 16 in Hong Kong on Thursday, prompting a stark self-assessment from the seven-time world champion.
"I'm just not a very good player anymore," the 50-year-old told the South China Morning Post following his elimination.
It sparks further rumours that the snooker legend might call time on his incredible career and retire.
The loss extends O'Sullivan's wait for a ranking title, which stretches back to January 2024.
Ronnie O'Sullivan has admitted he just isn't that good anymore in a sad admission
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His recent form has been particularly concerning, with the Rocket managing just two victories across his previous four tournaments before arriving in Hong Kong.
Those wins came against Long Zehuang at the German Masters and Joe O'Connor in the opening round of this event.
O'Sullivan dismissed suggestions that his struggles stem from a lack of match practice, insisting he felt comfortable during his time at the table.
"It's just my bad is a lot badder than it used to be, and my good is not as good," he explained. "There was no rustiness, I felt relaxed."
The snooker legend acknowledged he must find a way to continue competing without becoming consumed by frustration over his diminished abilities.
Ronnie O'Sullivan's best days might be behind him having not won a ranking title in over two years
| PA"Deep down, I enjoy playing. I have to accept [I'm not as good as I was] and find a way to keep playing without it driving me crazy," O'Sullivan said.
"I have to manage my frustrations, and hope the snooker gods will be kind and put me to rest when they decide the time is right."
The Rocket revealed that his reduced schedule is driven by a desire to be present for his children during their school holidays.
"All the times I don't play, it's because they're on holiday and I get to see them," O'Sullivan said. "I've had my career, I just want to keep playing and enjoy moments with them."
Despite competing in eight tournaments this season, the 50-year-old's priorities have clearly shifted away from chasing silverware.
He expressed little concern about potentially slipping down the rankings, stating: "I'm sure I'd get wild cards if I fell out of the top 32."
Xiao's victory marked his first triumph over O'Sullivan in a full ranking event after four previous unsuccessful attempts.
The 36-year-old Chinese player admitted to conflicting emotions about defeating someone he considers his hero.
"For me it's hard to say something, I'm happy I won against Ronnie, but also he is my idol, I want him to get to finals, win championships, I want him to do well," Xiao told WST.
Ronnie O'Sullivan's future in snooker remains to be seen after his latest admission
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"But this is sport, when I play anyone I don't want to lose. I feel sorry for Ronnie but we are still very good friends."
Xiao now advances to meet Si Jiahui in the quarter-finals.