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.
Written by
Robert Summerscales
Robert Summerscales
