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When a 14-year-old Ronnie O'Sullivan was questioned regarding Steve Davis in 1990, his response was "he creates new techniques … few competitors can do that".

That youthful insight revealed O'Sullivan's distinct philosophy. His ambition extends beyond mere victory to include redefining excellence in the sport.

Now, 35 years later, he has surpassed the accomplishments of his heroes while competing in the ongoing tournament, where he holds the distinction of being the most veteran and youngest champion, O'Sullivan celebrates his 50th birthday.

In professional sports, having just one 50-year-old competitor would be remarkable, yet his half-century means that three of the top six world players are now in their fifties.

The Welsh Potting Machine and John Higgins, similar to The Rocket became professionals over thirty years ago, similarly marked reaching fifty recently.

However, this remarkable longevity isn't automatic in snooker. The seven-time world champion, who shares the distinction with O'Sullivan of seven world titles, won his last ranking event in his mid-thirties, while Davis' triumph in 1997, aged 39, was considered an unexpected result.

This legendary trio, however, stubbornly refuse fading away. This article examines why three 50-year-olds stay at the top in world snooker.

The Mind

For Steve Davis, currently in his sixties, the primary distinction between generations is psychological.

"I typically faulted my form when losing, instead of adjusting mentally," he stated. "It felt like the natural cycle.

"These three champions have demonstrated that's not true. It's all mental… you can compete longer beyond predictions."

The Rocket's approach has been influenced by psychiatrist Professor Steve Peters, their partnership starting since 2011. In his 2023 documentary, The Edge of Everything, O'Sullivan asks him: "How long can I play, to avoid uncertainty?"

"If you focus on age, you trigger self-fulfilling prophecies," he advises. "Thoughts like 'Oh, I'm 46, I'll decline!' I discourage that. If you want to win, and keep delivering, disregard your age."

Such advice O'Sullivan has followed, mentioning recently that he feels "acceptable," noting: "I try not to overburden myself … I appreciate where I am."

The Body

While not physically demanding, winning depends on physical traits usually benefiting younger competitors.

Ronnie stays fit through running, yet difficult to prevent aging effects, like worsening eyesight, something Mark knows intimately.

"It amuses me. I require glasses constantly: reading, mid-range, long distance," Mark stated this season.

The two-time world champion considered vision correction delaying it repeatedly, latest in autumn, mainly because he continues winning.

Williams might benefit from brain adaptation, a psychological concept.

Zoe Wimshurst, who coaches athletes, noted that without conditions like cataracts exists, the brain can adjust to weaker eyesight.

"All people, after thirty-five, or early forties, will notice the eye lens stiffening," she said.

"However our minds adjust to challenges throughout life, even into old age.

"But, should eyesight remain fine, bodily factors could decline."

"In time in precision sports, your physique betrays your intentions," Steve noted.

"Your cue action fails to execute as required. The first symptom I felt was that although I aimed straight, the speed was off.

"Shot strength is the critical factor with no easy fix. It's inevitable."

O'Sullivan's mental work paired with meticulous physical care often stressing the role of diet in his achievements.

"He doesn't drink, eats healthily," commented a former champion. "You wouldn't guess he's 50!"

Williams also discovered nutritional benefits lately, revealing this year he added a pre-match meal, reportedly sustains energy through extended matches.

And while Higgins shed over three stone in 2021, crediting regular exercise, he now admits the weight returned though intending home gym installation to reinvigorate himself.

Driving Force

"The greatest challenge as you older is training. That passion for the game needs to continue," remarked a commentator.

The veteran trio aren't exempt from these difficulties. Higgins, multiple title holder, mentioned recently he struggles "to train consistently".

"But I believe that's normal," Higgins continued. "As you age, focus changes."

Higgins has contemplated skipping some tournaments yet limited by the ranking system, where major event qualification rely on performance in smaller competitions.

"It's challenging," he explained. "Negatively affect psychological well-being trying to play every tournament."

Similarly, Ronnie has reduced his European schedule since relocating abroad. This event is his initial domestic competition currently.

But none seem prepared to retire yet. Similar to tennis where great competitors like Federer, Nadal and Djokovic motivated one another to excel, so too have O'Sullivan, Higgins and Williams.

"If one succeeds, it raises the question why not the others?" commented an analyst. "I think they've inspired one another."

The Lack of Challengers

After his latest major victory at the 2024 Masters, O'Sullivan observed that new generation "must step up despite my age with poor vision, a unreliable arm and knee problems yet they can't win."

Although a Chinese player claimed the latest world title, rarely have players emerged to dominate the season. This is evident current outcomes, with multiple champions claimed the first 11 events.

Yet challenging competing against Ronnie, with innate ability unmatched in sports, as recalled since his youth on television.

"His technique, was obvious instantly," he said, observing the teen potting balls quickly securing rewards like outdated technology.

Ronnie often states that victories "isn't everything."

Yet, he implied previously that droughts fuel his drive.

Almost two years since a tournament win, but Davis believes turning fifty could motivate O'Sullivan.

"Who knows this milestone is the spark he requires to demonstrate his greatness," said Davis. "Everyone knows his talent, and he loves amazing audiences.

"Should he claim this tournament, or the World Championship, it would stun everyone… Achieving that an incredible accomplishment."