He has twice won the World Championship but his unpredictably and the strength of competition mean he is unlikely to match Stephen Hendry's record of seven titles.

Nevertheless, for the next few years, unless he packs up his cue, the Rocket will be considered one of the favourites at the Crucible.

O'Sullivan's form appears to fluctuate in tandem with his love for the game and, with Ding Junhui in the first round, he will need to get into his stride quickly.