Ronnie O’Sullivan tips Halifax's Stan Moody for future world snooker title

Halifax’s Stan Moody has been tipped as a future world snooker champion by the game’s greatest ever player, Ronnie O’Sullivan.

Moody, from Sowerby Bridge, was knocked out of this year’s tournament in the first round by Kyren Wilson, but showed enough promise in his 10-7 defeat, in which he led 6-3 after the first session, for seven-time champion O’Sullivan to tip him for the top.

SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND - APRIL 20: Stan Moody of England plays a shot against Kyren Wilson of England during day three of the Halo World Snooker Championship at The Crucible Theatre on April 20, 2026 in Sheffield, England. (Photo by Sam Bloxham/Getty Images)

placeholder image — SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND - APRIL 20: Stan Moody of England plays a shot against Kyren Wilson of England during day three of the Halo World Snooker Championship at The Crucible Theatre on April 20, 2026 in Sheffield, England. (Photo by Sam Bloxham/Getty Images)

Speaking after his opening-round win at the Crucible, O’Sullivan expanded on the emerging talent he has encountered, offering particular admiration for Moody.

“I always say hello to the boys, you know, Stan [Moody] gave me a little nod the other day. Lovely boy, great player. I think he’s going to be a world champion for sure,” O’Sullivan told SportsBoom.co.uk.

“He's got a lovely cue action, the way he hits and gets through the ball. He's definitely going to be a champion for sure.”