By Clive Jones BBC Sport at The Crucible

O'Sullivan was untroubled by Anthony Hamilton early on

Ronnie O'Sullivan turned in a magical performance as he became the first player to reach the semi-finals with a 13-3 demolition of Anthony Hamilton.

The Rocket left his opponent trailing in his wake as he rattled in four centuries on his way to victory.

Hamilton was always likely to be facing mission impossible after ending the morning session 7-1 adrift.

He managed to win two of the evening frames, but O'Sullivan sealed the match in the 16th with a session to spare.

And the 2001 world champion is remaining cagey over the prospect of a possible semi-final against Stephen Hendry, should the Scot beat Ian McCulloch.

Ronnie O'Sullivan has the potential to become the greatest player the game has ever seen From Wally Adam, Warrington Join the debate

"He has to win his match first so there is not much point in discussing it," said a muted O'Sullivan.

And responding to criticism of a series of rude gestures he made last week, O'Sullivan added: "What I did was wrong. I am only human and will make more mistakes."

Hamilton remained philosophical after the defeat, admitting there was little he could have done to stop O'Sullivan.

"After the first session the match was over," said Hamilton.

"Ronnie played so good and every time I got to the table I was in trouble. If he keeps on playing like that I can't see him being beaten.

"All the top players play well once they get to the quarters. In the first couple of rounds they tread water."

Quarter-final result:

R O'Sullivan (Eng) 13-3 Anthony Hamilton (Eng)