Ronnie O’Sullivan LIVE: Masters snooker semi-final as Murphy challenges | Other | Sport

Alexandra Palace and World Snooker Tour chiefs have spoken out following Ronnie O’Sullivan‘s scathing comments on The Masters venue.

O’Sullivan defeated Ding Junhui 6-3 to get his tournament bid underway and followed up his victory over the Chinese player by beating Barry Hawkins by the same scoreline on Thursday.

Afterwards, self-professed ‘clean freak’ O’Sullivan slammed the conditions at the Ally Pally, which also hosts the World Darts Championship, the Mosconi Cup and table tennis events.

« I just don’t like this place to be honest with you, I just find it disgusting, » he said.

« Everywhere’s just dirty, it’s cold, I’m freezing. »

An Alexandra Palace spokesperson has responded to the seven-time world champion’s startling rant, admitting that organisers for the venue have been left ‘disappointed’ by the criticism.

« We love hosting the Masters and welcoming all the players and fans to the Palace.

« We work tirelessly to provide an arena and atmosphere that this great event deserves.

« We’ve been proud of the overwhelming positive feedback the venue has received in recent years, and it’s obviously disappointing that Ronnie feels differently.

« We hope we can change his mind and that he enjoys the rest of his tournament here. »