Inside Ronnie O'Sullivan's radical snooker plan after addressing threat

He's widely perceived as the greatest snooker player of all time, and now has a grand plan to revolutionise the sport in the UK. Even before became the first Chinese player to be crowned world champion with a stunning display at the Crucible last month, 'The Rocket' voiced concerns about the threat to the snooker hierarchy from the Far East.

Overall, 10 Chinese players qualified for the sport's marquee event in Sheffield, with six reaching the last 16. During the tournament, and outlined a plan that involves fellow 'Class of 92' members and . However, his manifesto is one that would require substantial funding.

What is Ronnie O'Sullivan's plan?

The seven-time world champion wants three new snooker academies built in the UK, with him fronting one in England, Williams in Wales, and Higgins in Scotland. He also wants a fourth academy in Ireland, and touted Ken Doherty as the man to lead it.

"I've seen what they do in China, I've seen what the runners do in Kenya, it's about time we do something in this country to give the kids a chance," he said. "The game's growing, it's getting bigger, it's an exciting sport.

"Life's tough in the UK for everybody, so it's a good chance for youngsters to come to a place where they can be in a safe place, learn a trade - that's what snooker is - and we can do what China's doing, which is churning out champions."

How long will it take?

Despite O'Sullivan's grand plan, he isn't expecting a quick fix. There are currently just two British players under the age of 30 in the world's top 50 compared to the 10 from China.

The Englishman conceded it may even take two decades for things to come to fruition, and that's if the WPBSA can secure financial backing. He said: "It might take ten, fifteen, twenty years, but I think we can do it. We just have to somehow find some funding."

How much will it cost?

O'Sullivan already has his own academy in Saudi Arabia, and thinks his project would be affordable if, like in the Middle East, there was backing from the country's authorities. He added: "I know in China the government gets behind it, and the same in Saudi Arabia, but I'm sure there are ways we can

"It doesn't take a fortune, it's not a fortune to hire a venue, get some tables. We're really not looking at millions of pounds, we're looking at maybe a few hundred thousand. Just pay the rent, maybe ten tables, nice building where you've got enough space to do that and pay a few coaches to go there."