Ronnie O’Sullivan: World snooker champion ‘gutted’ after crashing out of English Open to Martin Gould

“He played great, he played too good for me. Nothing I could do today,” he said.

When asked if there was any relief when a tournament comes to an end, O’Sullivan responded: “No, I’m gutted. I was really enjoying it.

“But that’s the way it goes sometimes. You can’t win them all and I just enjoy playing. I’ve loved playing this week, I’ve enjoyed every game and enjoyed it out there.”

Gould ousted recent Scottish Open champion Gary Wilson in his opening match and set out his stall for another upset when he thundered home the first red in the opening frame.

But it was O’Sullivan who made the first telling contribution and earned frame ball, albeit only after losing control of the cue ball after potting the black, leaving him bridging over a red for his decisive shot.

O’Sullivan could only find the jaws of the centre pocket with his next shot, a miss he was left to rue as Gould returned to the table to pinch the frame.

“I’m never one for ifs and buts, the ball landed where it landed, but another day I get through there, could win tonight, could be sitting here Sunday the champion of the English Open. It’s just fine margins.”

Speaking in the Eurosport studio during the match, Jimmy White said of O’Sullivan: “He always gives 100%, I just don’t think he’s sharp enough.

“There were a few shots that showed me he hasn’t practised, he’ll have to answer that question himself why.”

Gould will play again in the fourth round later on Thursday.

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