OSullivan Can Set New Record

Former Crucible winner Cliff Thorburn believes Ronnie O'Sullivan can beat Stephen Hendry's record of seven World Championship wins.

O'Sullivan is on course for his third world title after storming to a 17-7 victory over Hendry in the semi-finals on Friday.

"We haven't seen the best of Ronnie yet and I can see him beating the record," said Thorburn, the 1980 champion.

"The sky's the limit for the Rocket. It is ridiculous how good he is."

The 60-year-old Canadian added: "He has made three maximums at The Crucible and I reckon he could go on to make 10 to 12 at this venue. Ronnie's so different to anything I have ever seen."

Hendry, 39, won all seven of his titles by the age of 30, whereas O'Sullivan has won two titles and is now 32.

Thorburn reckons that age should not be a factor.

"He's far from washed up. I compare Ronnie to golfer Tiger Woods - neither have reached their peaks yet," he said.

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