John Higgins secured a 13‑12 victory over Ronnie O’Sullivan in the second round of the World Snooker Championship at the Crucible, edging the match in a dramatic final frame.
During the encounter, Higgins highlighted O’Sullivan’s use of a distinctive type of chalk that differs from that employed by most players, noting that it creates unusual cue ball behavior.
Higgins described the effect as “a nightmare with kicks,” recalling a critical moment when a powerful kick disrupted his shot on the final black, prompting an exclamation of frustration.
He suggested that O’Sullivan’s choice of chalk may be intended to unsettle opponents, adding that the player believes the chalk provides better grip on the cue ball.
Former world champion Neil Robertson publicly called for a ban on the chalk, arguing that it generates kicks and bounces that compromise the integrity of the game.
Robertson acknowledged O’Sullivan’s friendship with an artist but emphasized that the chalk’s impact on the cloth creates a “mess of the table,” urging officials to intervene.
Despite Robertson’s criticism, he did not believe O’Sullivan uses the chalk to deliberately distract rivals, describing the player as “not inclined” to such tactics.
Higgins reflected that while the chalk gives O’Sullivan an advantage in cue ball control, players must adapt and focus on their own performance.
He also indicated that his off‑season motivation is low, noting that he has not picked up his cue since his World Championship loss and will resume competition at the Shanghai Masters in July.
