Rocket Ronnie expects to remain grounded rather than winning eighth world title

O’Sullivan will face one of his oldest foes first up.

Ronnie O’Sullivan has talked down his chances of a record eighth world snooker title. Pic: Ian Hodgson/PA

Ronnie O’Sullivan has painted a bleak picture of his chances of clinching a record-breaking eighth World Snooker Championship title and claims first-round opponent Ali Carter will start as favourite when he gets his 33rd Crucible campaign underway on Tuesday.

O’Sullivan has not played on the World Snooker Tour since he stuffed his cue in a bin after crashing out of the Championship League in January, and after a turbulent time on the practice table he left his participation in doubt until the eve of the tournament.