Ronnie O'Sullivan's 'selfishness' is what makes him a winner, says Barry Hearn on The Breakdown

Barry Hearn has paid tribute to «unique talent» Ronnie O’Sullivan and suggested his «selfishness» is what makes him so successful. Hearn previously managed the Rocket but has had something of a tempestuous relationship with snooker’s greatest ever player over the years, chose a more complementary approach when speaking on the latest episode of The Breakdown with Orla Channaoui and Greg Rutherford. Ad Although jokingly describing O’Sullivan as a «pain» due to the seven-time world champion’s often controversial and outspoken nature, Hearn admitted he respects the fact he is «in charge of his life» given his achievements in the sport.

Snooker'A great experience' – Watch Allen produce some golden form on the pool tableYESTERDAY AT 07:10 “Well, I mean, I've known Ronnie since he was 12 years old,” he said. “We don't see eye to eye on a lot of things. Because he's got his own ideas… they're wrong.

But it's okay. Because I have ideas about brain surgery. I wouldn't advise you let me operate.

“So I just think he's a remarkable talent, and I’m in awe of anyone with that type of ability. Look, I've known him, his mum, his dad, the ups and downs of the family. I've watched him, I got him to be a professional when he was 16 years old.

And I've got a lot of time for the kid. “But Ronnie is one of those unique talents that only comes along once in a century, once in a generation, whatever you want to call it. He's the best snooker player has ever been by a country mile.

“And I like the fact that he's in charge of his life, and he does what he wants. Sometimes it's a pain to me, I have to say, but I can understand that is the ultimate in accomplishments — to live a life where you literally do what you want to do. It’s the selfishness