Ronnie O'Sullivan to take a break from snooker

Ronnie O'Sullivan has said that he is planning to take a break from snooker although he will not be retiring from the sport.

The 36-year-old, who secured his fourth snooker World Championship with an 18-11 victory over Ali Carter on Monday evening, had earlier stated that this year's event might be his last appearance as a competitor at the Crucible Theatre.

However, such plans have now been put on hold.

He explained: "I'm not saying I have retired. I'm saying family is the most important thing in my life.

"I'm having four, five, six months off and I'll assess the situation."

O'Sullivan has been a vocal critic of the new snooker world ranking system which effectively penalises players who choose not to compete in some of the less lucrative tour events.