November 2nd 2024.
The highly anticipated match between Mink Nutcharut, the number one female snooker player in the world, and Ronnie O'Sullivan, known as the Rocket, is set to take place this weekend. While Mink is excited to face off against O'Sullivan, she actually considers Mark Selby, O'Sullivan's old rival, to be her snooker idol.
This opening round of the International Championship in China is expected to draw a lot of attention, with the 24-year-old Mink eager to challenge the seven-time world champion. She shared her enthusiasm with Metro, revealing that it has always been her dream to play against O'Sullivan before he retires. "I am extremely lucky with the draw this time. I can't wait to compete against him. Win or lose, it's an honor just to play against him," Mink expressed.
Although Mink has previously played with O'Sullivan in the World Mixed Doubles event, she sees this upcoming match as a different kind of challenge. "I still remember the time when I played with him and he was closely following my every move. I felt the pressure because it was Ronnie O'Sullivan! This time, I want to give my best and maybe even learn a thing or two from him," she shared with a smile.
Mink's professional career has seen some notable achievements, including her recent win at the first ever Saudi Arabia Masters, where her face was featured on posters at the venue. "I was quite surprised when I saw my face on those posters. It was a fun experience to be in Saudi Arabia, and I enjoyed playing on the table and interacting with fellow players," she reminisced.
Joining the main tour in 2022, Mink's ultimate goal is to make a maximum break, or a 147, which she acknowledges as a difficult feat for a woman in the sport. She also has her sights set on winning the Women's World Championship again. "I am determined to achieve both of these goals," she stated.
As a professional snooker player, Mink spends more time in Sheffield, her current home, than in Thailand. While she has adjusted to the lifestyle there, she admits that it can get lonely at times. "In the first year, I was a bit homesick, but now I have gotten used to staying here for extended periods of time," she said.
When asked if she has made any friends in Sheffield, Mink replied with a laugh, "I have mostly snooker players as friends. There aren't many Thai students here. I spend most of my time practicing and going back to my room, or traveling to play in tournaments." Despite the challenges, Mink enjoys her time in Sheffield, although she admits that the food in Thailand is better.
Mink's popularity in her home country is evident through her numerous sponsors, including well-known snooker brands and the Thai beer company, Singha. She was also recently honored with the Commander of the Most Admirable Order of the Direkgunabhorn, a prestigious recognition in Thailand.
With the support of her nation, Mink is ready to face O'Sullivan in Nanjing this weekend. Although she tries to approach every match with the same mindset, she acknowledges that there is added pressure when playing against a top player like O'Sullivan. "But I can handle it," she said confidently. "My game planning has improved, and I have gained more experience. I know what I am capable of."
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