Ronnie O’Sullivan achieves a historic milestone by compiling the highest break in professional snooker history—a remarkable 153—during the World Open on Friday morning.
The 50-year-old, seven-time world champion, pulled off this feat in his quarter-final clash against Ryan Day. O’Sullivan trapped his Welsh opponent in a snooker early in the opening frame. Day’s failed escape awarded O’Sullivan a crucial free ball.
Details of the Record-Breaking Break
O’Sullivan kicked off with the green as his free ball for one point, then potted the black to hit eight points before striking a red. He cleared all 15 reds, sinking 13 blacks and two pinks along the way, then polished off the colours for a total of 153.
This explosive start fueled a dominant 5-0 victory, propelling O’Sullivan into the semi-finals in Yushan, China.
Previous Record and Theoretical Maximums
The 153 surpasses the former record of 148, established by Jamie Burnett during qualifying for the 2004 UK Championship against Leo Fernandez. Burnett nominated the brown as free ball, potted it again, cleared 15 reds with 12 blacks, two pinks, a blue, and the colours.
In most snooker events, the highest possible break with a free ball stands at 155—free ball plus black, 15 reds with 15 blacks, and colours. The Saudi Arabia Masters elevates this to 167 with a golden ball worth 20 points, pottable only after a 147.
Casual Celebration from the Rocket
After the match, O’Sullivan posted a relaxed video on X to thank fans. He said: “Just wanted to say a big shoutout to all the people who’ve been messaging me, congratulating me on the 153. It was a pretty cool moment, happy to do it. Thank you to everyone out there who’s supported me. Keep enjoying the snooker in Yushan.”
O’Sullivan has competed selectively this season, including pulling out of the Masters in January, yet he displays peak form one month before the World Championship in Sheffield. Last year, he advanced to the Crucible semi-finals, where he lost to eventual winner Zhao Xintong.
