Ronnie O'Sullivan Eyes Record Eighth Title at World Snooker Championship

The World Snooker Championship is set to begin, with defending champion Zhao Xintong returning to the Crucible and Ronnie O'Sullivan aiming for a record eighth title. Other top contenders include Judd Trump, Mark Selby, Kyren Wilson, Neil Robertson, and Shaun Murphy. The tournament, which started in 1927, has a rich history, with past champions like Joe Davis, Steve Davis, and Stephen Hendry. This year, Zhao will attempt to break the 'Crucible Curse' and become the first maiden winner to successfully defend the title. O'Sullivan, who will be making his 34th consecutive appearance at the iconic venue, will start his campaign on April 21. The top 16 seeds will be drawn against the 16 qualifying round winners on April 16. The tournament will feature a range of prizes, including a £40,000 bonus for a maximum break in the main stage and a £147,000 bonus for any player who makes two maximums across the Triple Crown events and the Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters.