Ronnie O'Sullivan couldn't believe snooker history-maker's age as he's proven right

 Snooker prodigy Jackson Page produced a never-before-seen feat in a World Championship qualifier, suggesting Ronnie O'Sullivan was right about him

Ronnie O'Sullivan is in awe of snooker prodigy Jackson Page

Ronnie O'Sullivan's prediction about Jackson Page looks dead on after the young Welsh star made snooker history. Page, just 23, became the first player ever to pot two 147 maximum breaks in a single match during a World Snooker Championship qualifier, leaving fans and pundits in awe.

O'Sullivan, who'd already branded the rising star a "complete player" ready to take on the world's best, could hardly believe Page was so young when they clashed at last year's Crucible. "That kid is only 22? He's some player," O'Sullivan said after their 2024 first-round match. The seven-time world champion cruised to a 10-1 victory but was left impressed by Page's potential. "He looks like a complete player, ready to challenge the best," the 49-year-old said.

Those words rang true this week as Page's record-breaking performance in the qualifiers sent shockwaves through the sport, cementing his status as one to watch. The youngster's historic feat came against Noppon Saengkham in the third round of qualifying for the 2025 World Championship on Monday.

Needing a victory to keep his Crucible dreams alive, the Welshman didn't just win - he rewrote the record books. His two flawless maximums left commentators in awe. "It's unbelievable," said BBC's Rob Walker. "No one's ever done this before in a professional match. Jackson Page is making history."

Page turned pro at 16 and has been mentored by snooker icon Mark Williams. Despite the heavy defeat to O'Sullivan in 2024, he showed flashes of brilliance, including a stunning 142 break that briefly stole the spotlight.

Jackson Page has been turning heads recently

The Rocket later admitted the youngster was a "tough test" and predicted he'd climb the ranks fast. Though despite his talent, Page's journey hasn't been all smooth sailing.

The current World No. 35 has had to battle through qualifiers to earn his Crucible spot in recent years. But his latest heroics prove he's ready to live up to O'Sullivan's billing. "I knew I had to be on my game," O'Sullivan said after their match last year. "Jackson's got everything - technique, temperament, the lot."

The big question now is whether Page can carry this impressive form into the World Championship. He still needs to get past Joe O'Connor in the final round of qualifying, but Monday's performance suggests he's got a strong shot at making the main draw.

As for O'Sullivan, he's chasing a record-breaking eighth world title - but his recent form raises some concerns. The Wordsley native has openly spoken about confidence issues in recent months and hasn't competed since the Welsh Open in February.

He's also managed just one win in his last nine matches. Still, if there's one thing you should never do, it's write off the Rocket at the Crucible.