Ronnie ‘O’Sullivan Can Do What He Wants: Sam Craigie Backs The Rocket After Criticism – Snooker Freaks

The world champion came under fire from the Magician for claiming that he doesn’t care much about how well he plays and if he wins or loses at the moment.

Murphy also feels the world number one could use his huge profile to promote the sport more and help it grow and develop to the benefit of players and fans alike.

‘It is extremely irritating,’ said Murphy. ‘Ronnie in particular has one of the biggest platforms in the world. I just wish he would use it to help make the game better.

‘It does sometimes feel that most of the tour are pulling in a similar direction and others – and he’s not on his own – are just out for themselves.

However, Craigie doesn’t see it that way, sympathising with O’Sullivan falling out of love with the game on occasions, while the Rocket’s impact is so huge that he does not need to do any more.

‘When it comes to doing things for the sport he’s the one that sells the tickets, he’s the one that brings the money in really,’ Craigie told The Mirror. ‘Maybe he could do more but he can do what he wants. He’s the man that everyone wants to beat and if it wasn’t for him who knows how many tickets venues would sell.

‘I’m the same so I get it. There’s so many times snooker gets to you, he’s been through it in the past when he was younger so when you’re winning it’s hard to be really happy. The other side of it is really bad so you just have to take it in your stride.’