Snooker legend Ronnie "The Rocket" O'Sullivan said on Wednesday that unwavering dedication and discipline are required to succeed at the highest level as he prepares for a major tournament in Shanghai next week.

The Shanghai Snooker Masters will run from July 28 to August 3.

O'Sullivan has clinched four titles at the Masters event – three consecutively between 2017 and 2019 as well as in 2023 – with Judd Trump claiming the most recent title in 2024.

"My whole life I've been preparing to be the best I can be, so obviously you have to practice and keep sharp, but I'm ready all the time," O'Sullivan said at an event in Hong Kong.

"I work very hard to become the king of snooker, but there's many, many, very, very good players [like] Zhao Xintong, world champion. [He is a] fantastic player.

"I like to still be able to compete with these young guys who are very very good. I feel blessed."

O'Sullivan also highlighted the privilege of performing for his fans as a key factor in managing pressure, adding that enjoying the game also helps alleviate the demands of top-level competition.

Both Trump and O'Sullivan obtained their Hong Kong residency through the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme last year.