O’Sullivan returned with a bang in the Group 1 phase of the 2022 Snooker Champions League at the morning side arena in Leicester as he defeated Alexander Ursenbacher 3-1 on Tuesday to reach the last round of 32.

He (O’Sullivan) completed his maiden Century of the new season as he dominated proceedings at Morningside Leicester.

Heading into the game, still fresh from levelling the record of seven world titles previously set by Stephen Hendry when he claimed a vital victory over Judd Trump back in May this year, O’Sullivan never took his foot off the pedal as he quickly established an early lead by playing a break of 67/65/ and 65 to dispatch Faarkh Ajaib quickly ranked 99th in world.

The world no.1 wasn’t done yet as he continued his fine performances defeating Alfie Burden 3-1 by making a 68 break as well, with Alfie getting consolation in the third frame but unfortunately wasn’t enough to cause an upset.

All that was needed for O’Sullivan in the final Group1 game was a draw as he squared up against Alexander Ursenbacher. Still, convincingly, he got a comfortable win that catapulted him to the last 32 with breaks of [56,58 ] with a mouthwatering 121 rip wrap up the win.

After the game, O’Sullivan revealed he enjoyed his play and was satisfied with his first-round performances. However, he acknowledged it was mixed feelings for him after winning his seventh title.

“I am happy to have qualified for the next round, and I enjoyed every bit of the game.” I will be looking forward to being a better version of myself and hopefully win again this time around “. He added.

Written by: Akinnifesi Olumide