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DENNIS TAYLOR asserts that Ronnie O’Sullivan has diminished his intimidation factor, and to restore it, a reconnection with his mental coach Steve Peters is crucial.
The Rocket, who turned 49 last Thursday, lost his UK Championship title in his first match in York last month, falling to upcoming finalist Barry Hawkins.
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The last title he secured was in March – the World Masters of Snooker in Saudi Arabia – and this season, he has struggled to maintain his competitiveness and usual high standards.
Judd Trump, Kyren Wilson, Mark Allen, and Mark Williams have emerged as the leading contenders for trophies in recent competitions.
According to Taylor, when O’Sullivan enters the venue for the Scottish Open – where he will face China’s Xing Zihao on Tuesday evening – he won’t evoke the same fear in his opponents.
To change this perception, the 1985 world snooker champion believes O’Sullivan must rekindle his partnership with the sports psychiatrist who played a pivotal role in his achievement of many of his seven world titles.
Taylor, 75, shared his thoughts with Betway: “It’s a mental situation with Ronnie, and Steve Peters has been key to his success. He has earned multiple world titles.
“I don’t observe Steve Peters in his corner any longer, and Ronnie needs something akin to that to readjust his mindset.
“There are times when Ronnie steps into the arena, and his expression indicates that he is not completely present.
“Nevertheless, when he puts on that concentrated snooker demeanor and steps up, he becomes exceedingly tough to defeat.
“He’s been suffering losses, and opponents aren’t as daunted by him as they used to be [when competing against him], although they still have to keep performing at a high level.
“I believe that once he regains his mental strength, he’ll be back at the top of the sport.”
John Higgins discusses the loss of his best snooker cue.
For more details, please visit Betway at betway.com/en/sports/cat/snooker
