World Snooker Championship 2022: 'You know Ronnie pays the price' – Steve Davis on why O'Sullivan is the 'yardstick'

Ronnie O'Sullivan is setting the standard for other snooker players to follow both on and off the table, according to his fellow six-time world champion Steve Davis. O'Sullivan has been in glorious form at the Crucible Theatre as he chases a record-equalling seventh world title. Ad/> After completing a 10-5 win over David Gilbert from 3-0 behind in the first round a week ago, the 38-time ranking event winner enjoyed a thumping 13-4 victory over former Masters holder Mark Allen in the last 16 on Saturday.

SnookerYan Bingtao produces battling display to beat Selby in record-breaking match10 HOURS AGO O'Sullivan has hit five century breaks and 13 breaks over 50 in setting up a quarter-final with Stephen Maguire on Tuesday and Wednesday. Davis feels players like Allen should study O'Sullivan's work ethic to better themselves with John Higgins shedding several stones in the gym since losing 13-7 to Mark Williams at the Crucible last year. «I think you have to pay the price more than you would ever think to win the World Championship,» said Davis, world champion in 1981, 1983, 1984, 1987, 1988 and 1989.

/> «John Higgins has gone back in the gym. He looks a far leaner, fitter and more mentally assured animal. »You know full well Ronnie pays the price.

«He's not doing it just because he likes running or just for his health. He's doing it because he also knows it is going to keep him in the game for longer. »They are the yardstick.