Ronnie O'Sullivan criticised for turning down 'too cheap' prize money for 147 break at Welsh Open

Ronnie O'Sullivan has been criticised by World Snooker chairman Barry Hearn after turning down the chance of a maximum 147 break at the Welsh Open because the £10,000 prize money was "too cheap".  Hearn described O'Sullivan's actions as "unacceptable" and "disrespectful" - "This is not a crime, but a shame.  Players have a duty to the fans to deliver the best standard and entertainment they can. Anything less than playing to their best ability is unacceptable and disrespectful to the paying public."

Ronnie O'Sullivan, World Snooker Championships 2014, Crucible, Sheffield

On-form Ronnie potted 14 reds and 13 blacks before then going for an easier pink as he made a 146 to beat Barry Pinches 4-1 in the first round, saying: "If it had been more, I'd have gone for the 147."

In a wonderful addendum today, Barry Hearn said:  "Some have said he has brought the game into disrepute but Ronnie brings the game into fine repute.....No-one is bigger than the game but Ronnie is close because he is a fabulous player and a fun personality."