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Carter in Injury Battle Ahead of World Championship Clash with O’Sullivan
Snooker star Ali Carter is facing a race against time to recover from a neck injury before his highly anticipated World Championship match against Ronnie O’Sullivan at the Crucible. The draw for the prestigious tournament has set up a blockbuster encounter, renewing the intense rivalry between Carter and O’Sullivan, a match eagerly awaited by fans. This grudge match between the two Essex players is a central focus of the championship, with qualifier Carter, a two-time world finalist against O’Sullivan, eager to challenge the seven-time world champion.
Neck Injury Concerns for Carter
The world number 18 is now contending with a neck ailment, requiring him to seek immediate treatment over the Easter period. He has returned home to address the injury before his scheduled showdown with O’Sullivan on Tuesday. Prior to the draw, Carter offered “no comment” when questioned about potentially facing his long-time rival. Regarding his injury, Carter explained, “I really couldn’t tell you how it happened. It just arose suddenly. One morning, I literally couldn’t move my neck at all. It’s impacting my sleep significantly. It’s been terrible; I’ve barely slept in three days.”
“Excruciating Pain”
Carter described the severity of the discomfort: “Honestly, it felt like an intense burning sensation in my neck. I’ve tried lying in various positions to find comfort. I’m going to seek professional help as soon as I return. I have a few days to get it sorted. Rest assured, I will get it addressed.”
He further emphasized the intensity of the pain, stating, “Honestly, as many know, I’ve endured considerable hardship in my life, but this neck pain is among the most excruciating I’ve ever experienced. Even car journeys to the qualifiers were agonizing.”
Reflecting on his championship prospects, Carter added, “I had already mentally dismissed this World Championship, to be honest. It’s remarkable what happens when you alleviate pressure from yourself. Last year, I placed immense pressure on myself and performed poorly as a result. We will simply have to wait and see what unfolds this year.”
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Feud History and Previous Encounters
The contentious relationship between Carter and O’Sullivan gained notoriety during the 2018 World Championship due to the “barge-gate” incident, involving a physical clash between the two players.
Tensions flared again after the 2024 Masters final when O’Sullivan launched a verbal tirade against Carter, following accusations of unsportsmanlike conduct on the arena floor. O’Sullivan has since acknowledged regret over his outburst, attributing it to “heat of the moment stuff”.
This upcoming World Championship match will be O’Sullivan’s first competitive appearance since an incident at the Champions League in January where he broke his cue out of frustration.
O’Sullivan’s Championship Preparations
World number 5 O’Sullivan was absent from a recent Champions’ Dinner event, attended by numerous past Crucible champions. However, he is anticipated to arrive in Sheffield for the pre-tournament media engagements.
Chinese Contingent and New Faces
This year’s World Championship features a record ten Chinese players, exceeding the previous high of six in 2019. Several players including Daniel Wells, Zak Surety, and Lei Peifan are set to make their Crucible debuts.
Zhao Xintong, re-entering professional snooker after a 20-month suspension, marks only the third amateur participant at the Crucible in recent years, following James Cahill in 2019 and Michael White in 2022. Zhao Xintong, formerly ranked world number 9, secured his place in the main draw through qualifying matches.