Jimmy White admits the ‘problem’ he has with Ronnie O’Sullivan

Jimmy White has cast doubts over Ronnie O'Sullivan's readiness for upcoming major tournaments due to an apparent lack of match sharpness.

Speaking on Stephen Hendry's Cue Tips YouTube channel, discussion turned to 'The Rocket' and his prospects at the 2025 World Championships - which are set to be held in April and May. O'Sullivan, currently on par with Hendry with seven World Championship titles each, is tipped by White to make a comeback on the baize.

However, White expressed uncertainty about O'Sullivan's form, explaining: "Well listen, he'd like to get to eight to beat your record, but you know, you've got to get your act together. You can't keep not playing in competitions and then expect...okay, he did have that year out and then come back and win it. But he still practices, he's still playing all the time.

"I'm sitting on EuroSport sometimes and he says he hasn't played, and the cameramen have just got the balls out for him for four hours. I think he will get it together for the Crucible for this year. Whether he'll win it or not I don't know."

Expressing concerns over O'Sullivan's competitive edge, White added: "I think he will prepare, but the problem I've got with him – he's got no match (sharpness). He's not sharp because he hasn't played any matches." O'Sullivan has withdrawn from numerous ranking tournaments this season, with his last appearance being at the Championship League in January, where he infamously snapped his cue in frustration after a disappointing performance.

Since then, the 49-year-old has pulled out of several major events, including the Masters, the German Masters, the Welsh Open, and the World Open. O'Sullivan recently took to social media to address his absence, stating that he is