Jimmy White gives update on close friend Ronnie O’Sullivan ahead of World Championship
Jimmy White has given a fresh update on jimmy white and his close friend Ronnie O’Sullivan ahead of the 2026 World Snooker Championship. The six-time world finalist said he is hopeful O’Sullivan will be involved at the Crucible Theatre, where the tournament begins on April 18 ET. White also said he is impressed by O’Sullivan’s form and fitness right now.
White backs O’Sullivan’s shape before the Crucible
White said O’Sullivan is due to come to his new private snooker club for a show and practice session, and he believes the facilities could help persuade him further. He added that a salt beef sandwich may also help tempt O’Sullivan into making the visit. In White’s view, O’Sullivan should be treated as the favourite for an eighth world title if he does line up in Sheffield.
White pointed to O’Sullivan’s recent performances and physical condition as reasons for confidence. He said the 50-year-old is “the fittest guy on the circuit” and described his play as “really fabulous” at the moment. White also noted that O’Sullivan was only just beaten in China in his most recent event and made a 153 break in that match.
Jimmy White prepares for qualifying as O’Sullivan remains listed
O’Sullivan has not officially declared whether he will compete at the 2026 World Snooker Championship, after operating on a part-time schedule this season. Even so, he is already listed in the main draw and will face a Crucible qualifier unless there is a statement saying otherwise.
White is in the qualifying draw once again and is still trying to reach the main tournament for the first time since 2007. He will open against Gao Yang, a young Chinese player who has returned to the tour this year after a three-season absence.
Fitness, timing and what comes next
White’s comments come as the build-up to the championship gathers pace and attention stays fixed on whether O’Sullivan will take his place in the field. O’Sullivan has previously credited running with helping his fitness and wellbeing, and he has described how it helps him switch off away from snooker before a match.
For now, the focus stays on the days before April 18 ET, when the World Snooker Championship is due to begin. White’s message is clear: jimmy white believes O’Sullivan is sharp enough to challenge again, but the final call on his participation has still not been made.
