Ronnie O’Sullivan gives snooker chiefs list of demands to save ‘outdated’ Crucible as Barry Hearn hints at leaving venue
RONNIE O’SULLIVAN has the perfect remedy to sharpen up an “outdated” Crucible – bring in an interior designer.
The Grade II Listed building, which was opened in 1971, has been the subject of much debate this past fortnight with its snooker contract up for renewal in three years.
Home of the sport at the highest level since 1977, the Crucible Theatre has been attacked by some and praised by others during this Championship.
Hossein Vafaei, aka the Prince of Persia, reckons the Crucible STINKS, it desperately needs a lick of paint and the practice rooms look like garages.
Barry Hearn, the president of Matchroom Sport, has vowed to move the event globally unless Sheffield City Council build a new, 2,500-seater arena.
Meanwhile, O’Sullivan – who has won seven world titles within the auditorium – has given World Snooker Tour a list of demands that he would like to see behind the scenes.
The Rocket, 48, said: “I think it’s a little bit dated. It could be updated maybe.
“It could have some better facilities in here for the players to relax. Maybe have some nice food at the venue so you don’t have to keep bringing it in.
“I like the way they’ve got the courtesy cars here this year so you don’t have to scrum your way through the venue every time you come here.
“You don’t mind coming to the venue now. It’s the first time in years so that’s a real plus.
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“I get scones brought to my room before my match and that’s something else you don’t need to worry about.
“They’ve started to make these little improvements.
“But if you really put down a wish list – I think the venue could be friendlier towards players.
“Relaxation rooms maybe. More practice tables. Maybe two more practice tables.
“Maybe a nice dressing room with showers.
“If you get a clever interior designer or an architect in here you could knock all the walls down and start again.
“Maybe make it bigger and better and more up to date.”