O'Sullivan: I've under-achieved

Ronnie O'Sullivan believes he could have contested Stephen Hendry's records of snooker's major titles if he had fulfilled his potential throughout his career.

O'Sullivan has slipped down the rankings in recent seasons and does not see himself as a leading contender for snooker's biggest titles, with the UK Championship coming up in December followed by the Masters in January.

"I've won four UK titles, four Masters and three Worlds, which is a good haul, but in my mind I have under-achieved," said the Essex player who is currently ranked 11th and has no certainty of keeping his top 16 place for the rest of the season.

"I should have won two more World titles, two more Masters and maybe another UK. I've been in nine Masters finals and I should have converted another couple of those.

"I could have had Stephen Hendry's records in sight, but I have had a lot of ups and downs in my career. I suppose with the mindset I have had at times, I should be happy with what I've achieved.

"I'm still excited when I look forward to the big events. I'm happy to be the underdog now, even though I would much rather be among the favourites and really fancying my chances.

"The other players have flown past me and rankings don't lie. I'm coming from a different place where I enjoy events and hope to nick a big scalp. There is no pressure on me to win."

O'Sullivan came through the pro ranks with John Higgins and Mark Williams, and though the trio are less than nine months apart in age, O'Sullivan feels he has fallen behind.

"Those two are still winning titles," he said. "I was doing the same until two years ago, but I'm not any more so I'm not in that category. Then you've got Mark Selby who is World No 1 and very consistent, Shaun Murphy, Judd Trump, Neil Robertson and Ding Junhui.

"There are eight or nine players who are winning everything, and I'm not one of them. It's touch and go whether I'll even be in the top 16 when the World Championship comes around."