STEPHEN HENDRY has made an intriguing remark about the potential retirement timeline of Ronnie O’Sullivan from the world of snooker.

The seven-time world champion O’Sullivan, now 49, launched his professional career during the 1992/93 season, alongside notable players John Higgins and Mark Williams.

Stephen Hendry has made a surprise prediction about Ronnie O'Sullivan

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Stephen Hendry has made a surprise prediction about Ronnie O’SullivanCredit: Getty
O'Sullivan recently pulled out of the Scottish Open before he competed in Saudi Arabia

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O’Sullivan recently withdrew from the Scottish Open before heading to Saudi ArabiaCredit: PA

The trio, famously known as the “Class of 92,” continues to compete at the highest level, collectively claiming 14 world titles.

Hendry anticipates that O’Sullivan will retire before Williams.

During a conversation on Stephen Hendry’s Cue Tips, Hendry told Williams: “Who do you think will retire first? I believe it will be Ronnie.

“This isn’t a critique of his playing ability or anything.

“He’s currently enjoying lucrative earnings, and I’m not certain if his competitive spirit is still there.”

Recently, O’Sullivan opted out of the Scottish Open prior to competing in Saudi Arabia at the Riyadh Season Snooker Championship, where he made it to the semi-finals.

His next competitive snooker tournament will be the Masters, where he is set to take on Higgins in the first round on January 12.

In reference to 2025, he stated: “I’ll be back in the UK around January 3 or 4.

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Mark Williams, like O'Sullivan, turned professional during the 1992/93 season

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Mark Williams, like O’Sullivan, turned professional during the 1992/93 seasonCredit: Getty

“I’ve just returned from Saudi Arabia. Following that, I’ll spend a week in Macau, then head to China for 3-4 days before making my way home. It’s not the most convenient schedule.

“Before the last Masters, I had outstanding performances at the Shanghai Masters and the UK Championship. I had been playing a lot of snooker.

Snooker legend Ronnie O’Sullivan arrives in Riyadh for Fury vs Usyk 2

“However, I haven’t played many matches since August. It is what it is.

“Looking forward, it might not happen this year or the next.

“Just keep playing, enjoying the process, and having fun, and we’ll see how things develop.

“I don’t have definitive New Year’s resolutions. Maybe just a focus on maintaining my health and happiness.

“I spend a lot of time at the gym. After not running for a year, I started running again a couple of months ago due to some knee issues.

“So I’m getting back into running while prioritizing gym workouts, staying fit because it positively impacts my mind and overall health.”