TNT Sports
Ronnie O'Sullivan hits out at 'dirty' and 'disgusting' Alexandra Palace after win over Barry Hawkins
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Published 12/01/2024 at 11:11 GMT
Snooker No. 1 Ronnie O'Sullivan remains on course for an eighth Masters title after beating Barry Hawkins 6-3 in their quarter-final match-up on Thursday at Alexandra Palace. Despite that success, the snooker legend has criticised the North London venue for its levels of cleanliness. He said after his victory that he "can't wait to get out of here."
Dejected O’Sullivan reflects on ‘horrible’ match against Hawkins
Video credit: TNT Sports
Ronnie O’Sullivan has criticised Alexandra Palace as “disgusting” and “dirty” after his Masters quarter-final victory over Barry Hawkins.
The 6-3 win took him into the final four in North London, where he is aiming to win an eighth title.
The 48-year-old hit out at the cleanliness of the venue, saying: "I just don't like this place. I find it disgusting.
"Everywhere is dirty. It's cold. It's freezing, I have to wear my coat everywhere. You go through car parks. There are bins. Honestly, it just makes me feel ill.
"I'm a bit of a clean freak and when I come in here it gives me the heebie-jeebies. I just can't wait to get out of here."
The tournament has been held at Alexandra Palace since 2012, and is also a venue for the PDC World Darts Championship since 2008.
The World Snooker Tour responded to O’Sullivan’s comments, saying: "We work alongside Alexandra Palace to provide the best possible conditions for players on and off the table.
"All other players have spoken with unanimous positivity about the venue. Fans love coming here. This is underlined by record ticket sales and the fact that all standard admission seats sold out ahead of this year's tournament."
A spokesperson added: "We love hosting the Masters and welcoming all the players and fans to the Palace. We work tirelessly to provide an arena and atmosphere that this great event deserves.
"We've been proud of the overwhelming positive feedback the venue has received in recent years, and it's obviously disappointing that Ronnie feels differently. We hope we can change his mind and that he enjoys the rest of his tournament here."
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Stream the 2024 Masters live on Eurosport and discovery+
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