Ronnie O'Sullivan gives honest verdict after Barry Hawkins dumps him out of UK Championship

Ronnie O'Sullivan graciously accepted defeat after Barry Hawkins, world No. 20, knocked him out of the UK Championship on the opening day in York on Saturday.

The snooker ace and defending champion, despite a 4-2 lead, lost to Hawkins who claimed a surprise 6-4 victory. This marked only his third win in 21 attempts against the legendary O'Sullivan.

Hawkins, aged 45, impressed with four consecutive half-century breaks as O'Sullivan remained seated for three entire frames. Following the upset, a noble yet visibly disappointed O'Sullivan acknowledged Hawkins's superior play: "I just think Barry played a good match and deserved his win, so I have to give all credit to him," he said.

"He played well, looked strong and took his chances. I'm all right about it and I'm pretty much used to it. You just have to roll with it. It is what it is."

"I'm just enjoying playing, that's the important thing. I try to not look back on it and on to whatever the next event is.", reports the Express.

Initially, 'The Rocket' had blazed ahead with two century breaks leading 3-1 at the interval. However, he could not hide his frustration later, thumping the table as Hawkins closed the gap from a 4-2 deficit to clinch a memorable win.

Ronnie's last loss to Hawkins dates back to the 2016 World Championship at The Crucible.

Hawkins stated after the match: "It has been eight years since I've beaten him so that win has to be right up there for me."

He described the victory as "It's a massive win. So many times I've played him and he has done well and other times he has been there for the taking and I've crumbled and could not take advantage."

acknowledging that he had often struggled against O'Sullivan in the past. Hawkins said: "It's a massive win. So many times I've played him and he has done well and other times he has been there for the taking and I've crumbled and could not take advantage."

He continued: "He looked sharp to me, but I felt strong at the end to get a win. Hopefully this gives me a lot of confidence and I can take that into the next round, but I can't get carried away."

The victory marked a turning point for Hawkins, who had previously lost key matches against O'Sullivan, including the 2013 World Championship final and a Tour Championship semi-final. Hawkins said: "I thought 'here we go, I'm going home again'," adding: "So many times I've been on the brink of winning against Ronnie and it has gone to the last frame and I've lost a decider."

He reflected on the difference in his approach this time, saying: "Maybe I was a bit more aggressive today, I had a bit more confidence and belief."

Hawkins was determined to build on the win, stating: "Obviously this is a great result but there's no way I will be happy if I beat Ronnie and then lose in the next round. I know I can do it, but sometimes I've not turned up, played awful and crumbled, but I've now just beaten the best player in the world."