Ronnie O'Sullivan made feelings clear on snooker history-maker and didn't believe his age

Ronnie O'Sullivan's hunch about Jackson Page seems spot on after the young Welsh talent etched his name into the history books. At just 23, Page became the first ever to in a single match during a qualifier, leaving onlookers stunned.

had previously hailed him as a "complete player" capable of competing with the sport's elite, and was surprised to learn Page's age when they faced off at last year's Crucible. "That kid is only 22? He's some player," O'Sullivan remarked after their 2024 opening-round encounter.

Despite coasting to a , the seven-time champion acknowledged Page's impressive promise. "He looks like a complete player, ready to challenge the best," the now 49-year-old said.

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Those remarks proved prophetic this week, as Page's jaw-dropping display in the qualifying rounds sent ripples through the snooker community, firmly establishing him as a rising star. His landmark achievement came against Noppon Saengkham in round three of the 2025 World Championship qualifiers on Monday.

Needing a victory to stay in the tournament, the Welsh cueist didn't just win - he shattered records, with his pair of perfect 147s leaving commentators stunned. "It's unbelievable," exclaimed BBC's Rob Walker. "No one's ever done this before in a professional match. Jackson Page is making history."

Page began his professional journey at 16, under the guidance of snooker legend . Though heavily beaten by O'Sullivan in 2024, he showed his potential with flashes of brilliance, including a magnificent 142 break that momentarily captured attention.

Even O'Sullivan later acknowledged the youngster was a "tough test" and foresaw a rapid ascent through the rankings. Yet Page's career hasn't been without its hurdles.

Currently ranked 35th in the , he's often had to fight through the qualifying stages to make it to the Crucible. But his recent heroics prove he's starting to fulfil O'Sullivan's praise. "I knew I had to be on my game," O'Sullivan said after their showdown. "Jackson's got everything - technique, temperament, the lot."

Now, the major question is whether Page can continue this electric run into the main draw. He still needs to beat Joe O'Connor in the final qualifying match, but his performance on Monday suggests he's well-positioned to do just that.

As for O'Sullivan, he's pursuing a historic eighth world crown, though recent form has cast some doubts. The Wordsley native has admitted to lately and hasn't played competitively since the Welsh Open in February.

With only one win in his last nine outings, concerns linger - but if history has taught us anything, it's never count out the Rocket at the Crucible.