Quick Read
- Ronnie O’Sullivan set a new professional snooker record with a 153-point break at the World Open.
- The achievement surpassed the previous professional record of 148, which had stood for 22 years.
- O’Sullivan followed the historic frame with a 5-0 whitewash to secure his place in the semi-finals.
YUSHAN (Azat TV) – Ronnie O’Sullivan has solidified his status as the greatest in the history of professional snooker by compiling a record-breaking 153-point break during the World Open quarter-finals in China. The 50-year-old seven-time world champion achieved the feat on Friday against Ryan Day, eclipsing the previous professional record of 148, which had stood since 2004.
Rewriting Professional Snooker History
The historic moment occurred in the opening frame of the match. Benefitting from a free ball, O’Sullivan executed a 16-red clearance that left spectators and fellow professionals stunned. While a theoretical maximum of 155 is possible under specific circumstances, O’Sullivan’s 153 stands as the highest break ever recorded in a professional tournament environment. The effort surpassed the long-standing record held by Jamie Burnett, who managed a 148 at the UK Championship qualifiers two decades ago.
A Statement Performance in Yushan
Following the record-breaking opening frame, O’Sullivan maintained his momentum to secure a 5-0 whitewash victory over Day, advancing to the semi-finals. He supplemented the 153 with subsequent breaks of 110, 103, 95, and 62. The dominant display serves as a significant turning point for the veteran, who has endured a challenging 2025/26 season without a major title to his name. Prior to this week, O’Sullivan had adopted a part-time schedule, appearing in few ranking events since the start of the year.
Stakes Ahead of the Crucible
The success at the World Open carries weight beyond the tournament itself. With his form appearing to return, O’Sullivan is set to enter the upcoming World Championship as the number 12 seed. He is currently chasing an unprecedented eighth world title, a feat that would move him clear of Stephen Hendry’s modern-era record. The clinical nature of his performance in Yushan suggests that despite his limited schedule this season, he remains a primary contender for the sport’s ultimate prize.
The record-breaking 153 break confirms that O’Sullivan’s capacity for peak performance remains undiminished, providing him with a vital psychological edge as he transitions into the final phase of the season where his pursuit of an eighth world title will define his legacy.