Ronnie O’Sullivan has advanced to the semi-finals of the Tour Championship after defeating Ali Carter with a decisive score of 10-2. This victory in Manchester not only marks a significant moment in O’Sullivan’s illustrious career but also adds another chapter to the ongoing rivalry between the two players, which had previously intensified during the Masters final in January.

O’Sullivan’s path to semi-final glory has been marked by personal challenges. In recent interviews, he revealed his struggles with mental health over the past two years, attributing part of his emotional turmoil to the high pressures of professional snooker. To counter these challenges, O’Sullivan sought the expertise of psychiatrist Steve Peters, aiming to adopt a healthier mindset towards the game. He expressed a newfound focus on prioritizing his mental well-being over the pursuit of perfection, a shift he believes is crucial for his continued success.

In other matches, Gary Wilson defeated four-time world champion Mark Selby, prompting Selby to contemplate retirement due to his dissatisfaction with his current form. Wilson, despite his victory, criticized his own performance and expressed concerns about his preparations for upcoming matches. Additionally, Mark Williams clinched a nail-biting 10-9 victory over Tom Ford, setting up a thrilling quarter-final clash with Judd Trump.

The Tour Championship serves as a pivotal event leading up to the World Snooker Championship in Sheffield, where O’Sullivan aims to secure his eighth world title. His next opponent will be the winner of the match between Zhang Anda and Gary Wilson.

O’Sullivan’s candid revelations about his mental health struggles and his impressive comeback in the tournament highlight both his vulnerability and resilience, underscoring the intense psychological demands of professional snooker.