An Open Letter from Mark Allen to Ronnie O’Sullivan, Fans, and the Snooker Community
Dear Ronnie, fellow professionals, fans, and everyone who loves this beautiful game,
I’m writing this letter with a full heart and a clear mind, inspired by both reflection and gratitude. Over the years, snooker has given me so much—joy, heartbreak, challenge, and purpose—and in recent times, I’ve felt a deep urge to express something that’s long been building inside me: appreciation, admiration, and hope for our sport and all of you who make it what it is.
First, to Ronnie—“The Rocket” himself. I’ve said it on record before, but it bears repeating with even more sincerity: You are, without a doubt, the greatest player our sport has ever seen. Watching you play is like witnessing a painter with a brush or a poet with a pen—effortless, instinctive, and breathtaking. And playing against you, as I’ve had the privilege to do many times, has always been a test of the highest order. You push us all to raise our levels, not just technically, but mentally and emotionally. Whether we’re sharing banter in the press room or trading frames in the arena, I’ve always respected you—not just as a player, but as a man who has stayed true to himself in a game that isn’t always easy on the soul.
To the fans—thank you. Truly. For turning up in packed arenas, for staying up late to watch those tense deciding frames, for sticking by us through our wins and losses. It’s your passion that fuels our fire. I’ve felt your support in moments of triumph and especially in times when things weren’t going my way. That kind of loyalty doesn’t go unnoticed. Whether you’re cheering in the front row or streaming matches from halfway across the globe, you’re the heartbeat of snooker. You remind us that what we do matters—not just in the scoreline, but in the emotions we evoke.
To my fellow players and the entire snooker community—this game asks more of us than most people see. It demands discipline, sacrifice, mental strength, and endless hours of quiet dedication. We don’t just play a sport; we live a craft. And while we may be rivals at the table, there’s a deep sense of respect and camaraderie that binds us. I’ve learned from so many of you, and I continue to be inspired by your resilience, your brilliance, and your unwavering love for this game.
Over the past couple of years, I’ve gone through a personal transformation—on and off the table. From focusing on my health and fitness to making changes in how I approach the game mentally, it’s been a journey of growth. And I can honestly say that I’ve never loved snooker more than I do now. It’s not just about titles or rankings anymore—it’s about legacy, fulfillment, and giving back.
That’s why I believe we, as a community, have a shared responsibility. We need to keep growing this game—not just commercially or globally, but spiritually. Let’s inspire the next generation not just to win, but to play with integrity and passion. Let’s make our sport a space where mental health is talked about, where players support each other, and where every young dreamer with a cue in their hand feels they belong.
Ronnie, I hope you know how many of us you’ve inspired to pick up the cue, to believe that magic is possible, and to chase our potential without fear. You’ve been more than a champion—you’ve been a beacon. And I say that not as a competitor, but as someone who deeply respects what you’ve done for snooker.
To everyone reading this, I just want to say: The best of this sport is still ahead of us. Let’s protect it, elevate it, and cherish it—together.
With respect, gratitude, and hope,
Mark Allen
