Ronnie O’Sullivan referred to WPBSA disciplinary committee over ‘lewd gesture’ at the World Championship
O’Sullivan faces a possible fine (Photo by Richard Sellers/PA Images/Alamy)
Ronnie O’Sullivan has been referred to the WPBSA disciplinary committee over an alleged lewd gesture he made during his First Round win over David Gilbert at The Crucible.
O’Sullivan appeared to make the gesture after missing a routine black off the spot in the 13th frame of his match on Sunday and could face a possible fine.
The world number one went on to win the match 10-5 to launch his latest quest for a record-equalling seventh world title.
A WST spokesperson said: “We are aware of the incident and it has been referred to the WPBSA disciplinary committee.”
O’Sullivan’s win was his 70th at the Crucible, moving him level with Stephen Hendry for the most by any player at the sport’s spiritual home.
The Rocket is making his 30th consecutive appearance in the World Championship – matching the overall tally of Steve Davis.
O’Sullivan will take on Northern Ireland Open champion Mark Allen in the Last 16 in Sheffield on Friday.
O’Sullivan has previously been fined for making rude gestures and remarks, notably in 2008 during a press conference at the China Open.
In 2013, he received a warning from referee Michaela Tabb over an ‘obscene’ gesture during his Semi-Final meeting with Judd Trump and again by referee Olivier Marteel during his Second Round tie with Matthew Stevens two years later.
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