Ronnie O’Sullivan made a historic 153 break at the World Open in Yushan (Danny Lawson/PA)
Ronnie O’Sullivan backed up his record break of 153 as he won a tense deciding frame against China’s Wu Yize at the World Open to reach a first ranking final in more than two years.
The seven-time world champion was never behind against Wu, but he struggled to make it over the finish line to seal a 6-5 win.
Wu looked set to steal the victory as he opened up with a break of 43 in the deciding frame, but 5O’Sullivan punished a poor safety shot by sinking a long red and he then held his nerve with an impressive clearance of 89.
The win ensured O’Sullivan moved into his 66th final in a ranking event and his first since January 2024.
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Despite his improved displays, O’Sullivan admits he is still some way short of his best form.
“I don’t feel great on any shot to be honest with you,” said O’Sullivan.
“At least here I feel like I can get the cue through the ball, make some breaks, get the white moving about. There’s certain shots I just don’t have in my locker. At the moment, I’m just grateful to have what I’ve got.”