A snooker ace has been tipped to become world champion and has the natural talent to rival Ronnie O'Sullivan.
Snooker's enigmatic talent Jack Lisowski, often likened to Ronnie O'Sullivan for his natural flair, has yet to clinch a ranking event title despite banking millions since turning professional in the 2010/11 season, and failed to quality for the Crucible. The 32 year old, who reached the World Championship quarter-finals two years ago, is now facing scrutiny over his lack of major wins on the circuit.
Despite raking in an impressive £1.7million in prize money, the snooker community is questioning why 'Jackpot' hasn't made a more significant impact on the sport.
Mark Selby, a titan of the game, has lauded Lisowski's abilities, stating earlier this year to the World Snooker Tour: "Sometimes his (Lisowski's) standard is up there with Ronnie, it is unplayable," and "He is probably one of my favourite players to watch. I think once he wins one then the floodgates will open. At the moment I don't think he realises how good he is."
Selby also noted Lisowski's mental game as his Achilles' heel, suggesting that a breakthrough victory could unleash his full potential: "Deep down, when you speak to him or hear him in interviews it is as if he doesn't believe he should be there with the top guys. He is a top player. He played great at the Crucible in 2022, beat Neil Robertson and only just lost to John Higgins to miss out on the semi-finals."
Lisowski's exceptional talent for break-building combined with his improving defensive play has prompted many to liken his abilities to those of snooker legend Ronnie O'Sullivan.
Shaun Murphy, after facing defeat by Lisowski during the UK Championship quarter-finals two years ago, was full of praise despite a 6-2 loss following Lisowski's outstanding streak of four consecutive century breaks.
"The only person who has the talent and the raw-DNA talent running through their veins to make the game anything like as easy as that is O'Sullivan," remarked Murphy when reflecting on Lisowski's performance
"And if Jack has or does find a way to harness that and is happy to get in the trenches if someone does get on top of him which I was unable to do tonight... if he can marry that with his undeniable talent he will win, and win a lot."
But the current world No. 25, Lisowski, still stands on the precipice of underachievement.
He's sought guidance from ex-world champion Peter Ebdon and Seniors world champion Lee Walker to tackle psychological hindrances, yet it's uncertain if he'll succeed in shaking off the 'next O'Sullivan' moniker and secure a major victory at last.
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