An Open Letter from Stephen Hendry to Ronnie O’Sullivan, Fans, and the Entire Snooker Community
Dear Ronnie,
As I sit down to write this letter, I find myself reflecting on the extraordinary journey we have both had within the world of snooker. Over the years, our paths have crossed in both competition and camaraderie, yet there are moments where it is only fitting to pause and acknowledge not just the history we’ve created, but the legacy of snooker itself.
Firstly, I want to extend my deepest admiration and respect to you, Ronnie. There is no question that you are one of the most iconic figures in the history of snooker. When people talk about the game, your name is inseparable from the conversation. You have transcended the sport in a way that few others have ever done, and your contribution has helped elevate snooker to global prominence. In my eyes, you have redefined what it means to be not just a champion but an artist in this sport.
There are so many things that I could mention when speaking about your impact on snooker. Your natural ability to read the game, your astonishing creativity around the table, and your relentless pursuit of perfection are qualities that have inspired generations of fans and players alike. It’s no exaggeration to say that your flair for the game has brought a new energy to the sport, one that has captivated people from all walks of life.
As a player, I have had the privilege of competing against you in some of snooker’s most memorable matches. There were moments of intense rivalry, moments when our games pushed each other to be better, to dig deeper into our reserves of skill and mental fortitude. But what stands out to me the most is the mutual respect that we’ve shared for each other as professionals. You’ve made me want to play better, to evolve, and to keep pushing the limits of what’s possible. That is the mark of a true champion and one of the reasons why you’ve had such an enduring influence on the sport.
I think it’s also important to recognize the influence you’ve had beyond the confines of the snooker table. There are countless people who have watched your career unfold and felt inspired to take up the sport themselves. Your presence has undoubtedly fueled the love for snooker across the globe, particularly with the younger generation. You’ve shown them that snooker isn’t just about hitting balls into pockets—it’s about style, flair, and personal expression. Your unique approach to the game has made it both thrilling and accessible to fans around the world.
However, I also want to take a moment to reflect on the broader snooker community—the fans, the players, the sponsors, the officials, and everyone who contributes to making snooker the thriving sport it is today. The beauty of snooker lies not just in the talent of its players, but in the passion and dedication of its community. We are all part of something that is greater than any single individual, and I truly believe that this is one of the things that makes snooker so special.
The fans, in particular, have played a huge role in the sport’s growth. Snooker has a dedicated following, people who live and breathe the game, who see it as more than just a pastime but as an integral part of their lives. To those fans who have supported both you and me through thick and thin, I owe a great deal of gratitude. Your unwavering enthusiasm, whether at the Crucible or on a television screen thousands of miles away, has been a driving force behind the sport’s success. We, as players, owe it to you to continue giving our best performances and to uphold the tradition of snooker.
I also want to mention the evolution of snooker as a sport. From the days when I started playing, there have been many changes in terms of technology, broadcasting, and the opportunities available to players. It is no longer just about the game itself but about the world that surrounds it. The sport has evolved into a global spectacle, reaching new heights in terms of viewership, sponsorship, and recognition. We’ve seen new talents rise through the ranks, and the bar has been raised for everyone involved. Yet, I would argue that this evolution would not have been possible without the foundations laid by players like you. The way you’ve consistently been at the forefront of snooker has set the tone for what is possible in the years to come.
Looking to the future, I know that the game of snooker will continue to evolve. The torch will eventually pass to the next generation, but I’m confident that the spirit of the game will remain as vibrant as ever. It will be exciting to see how the next generation of players takes inspiration from the likes of you, me, and others, and how they shape the future of the sport. Snooker has a timeless quality to it, one that ensures that it will always have a place in the hearts of its fans.
Lastly, I want to say that it has been an honor to be a part of this journey with you. We’ve shared highs and lows, victories and defeats, but ultimately we’ve shared a love for the game of snooker. The rivalries, the moments of brilliance, the tough matches—all of these have contributed to the history of the sport. As you continue to write your own legacy, I will be there, watching in admiration, knowing that I’ve been a part of something truly special.
To you, to the fans, and to the entire snooker community, thank you for everything. The road we’ve traveled together has been remarkable, and I am excited to see where the future takes us.
With great respect and admiration,
Stephen Hendry
