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When a 14-year-old Ronnie O'Sullivan spoke about Steve Davis in 1990, he remarked "he invents shots … few competitors can do that".

This early statement highlighted O'Sullivan's distinct philosophy. His ambition isn't limited to winning matches encompassing setting new standards in the sport.

Now, 35 years later, he has surpassed the achievements of his heroes while competing in the ongoing tournament, a competition where he maintains the distinction of being the oldest and youngest winner, O'Sullivan will mark his 50th birthday.

In professional sports, for a single player of that age is impressive enough, but O'Sullivan's milestone signifies that three of the top six global competitors are now in their sixth decade.

The Welsh Potting Machine and John Higgins, who like O'Sullivan turned pro over thirty years ago, also celebrated their 50th birthdays this year.

Yet, this remarkable longevity isn't automatic in snooker. Stephen Hendry, holding the distinction alongside Ronnie for most world championships, won his last ranking event at 36, while Davis' triumph in 1997, nearing forty, came as an unexpected result.

The Class of 92, though, continue to resist declining. Here we explore how three veterans remain competitive in professional snooker.

The Mind

For Steve Davis, currently in his sixties, the key difference across eras is psychological.

"I typically faulted my form for failures, rather than adjusting mentally," he explained. "It seemed like inevitable progression.

"These three champions have proven that's not true. It's all mental… careers can extend beyond predictions."

The Rocket's approach was shaped by psychiatrist Professor Steve Peters, with whom he's collaborated since 2011. During a recent film, his documentary, O'Sullivan inquires: "How long can I play, to avoid uncertainty?"

"By fixating on years, you activate self-fulfilling prophecies," he advises. "You'll start thinking 'Oh, I'm 46, I'll decline!' I discourage that. To maintain success, and keep delivering, then ignore age."

Such advice O'Sullivan has followed, telling reporters that turning 50 "alright," adding: "I try not to overburden myself … I enjoy this life stage."

The Body

Snooker may not be physically demanding, winning depends on bodily attributes usually benefiting younger competitors.

O'Sullivan maintains fitness through running, yet difficult to prevent aging effects, like worsening eyesight, something Mark knows intimately.

"I find it funny. I need spectacles constantly: reading, medium distance, far shots," Williams shared this season.

The two-time world champion has contemplated lens replacement surgery but postponed it repeatedly, most recently in November, primarily since he continues winning.

Williams might benefit from neuroplasticity, a psychological concept.

A vision specialist, who coaches athletes, explained that without conditions such as cataracts, the mind adapts to weaker eyesight.

"Everyone, after thirty-five, maybe early 40s, experience the eye lens stiffening," she said.

"However our minds adjust to challenges continuously, including senior years.

"Yet, should eyesight remain fine, bodily factors may fail."

"Eventually in games requiring accuracy, your physique betrays your intentions," Davis commented.

"Your arm fails to execute properly. The first symptom I noticed was that although I aimed straight, the speed was off.

"Delivery weight becomes problematic and there's no solution. That will occur."

O'Sullivan's mental work coincided with meticulous physical care and he frequently emphasizes nutritional importance in his achievements.

"He avoids alcohol, consumes nutritious food," commented an ex-winner. "You wouldn't guess thirty years younger!"

Mark similarly realized nutritional benefits lately, disclosing in 2024 he incorporates pre-game nutrition, which he claims maintains stamina through extended matches.

Although John Higgins shed over three stone recently, attributing it to spin classes, he currently says he regained it but plans setting up equipment for renewed motivation.

Driving Force

"The toughest aspect with age is practice. That passion for the game needs to continue," added another expert.

Williams, Higgins and O'Sullivan face similar challenges. Higgins, multiple title holder, stated in September he struggles "to train consistently".

"But I believe that's normal," Higgins continued. "As you age, focus changes."

John considered reducing his schedule yet limited due to points requirements, where tournament entries depends on performance in smaller competitions.

"It's a balancing act," he explained. "It can harm psychological well-being trying to play all these events."

Similarly, Ronnie has reduced his tournament appearances since relocating to Dubai. This event is his initial home tournament currently.

Yet all three seem prepared to retire yet. Like in other sports where great competitors like Federer, Nadal and Djokovic motivated one another to greater heights, similarly O'Sullivan, Higgins and Williams.

"When one wins, it raises the question why not the others?" said a pundit. "I think they've inspired each other."

The Lack of Challengers

Following his most recent major victory this year, O'Sullivan remarked that younger players "must step up because I'm declining with poor vision, arm issues and knee problems and they still lose."

While China's Zhao Xintong won this year's world title, rarely have players emerged to dominate the season. This is evident current outcomes, where 11 different winners claimed the first 11 events.

But it's difficult when facing O'Sullivan, who possesses exceptional natural talent unmatched in sports, as recalled from his teenage appearance on television.

"His stance, was obvious instantly," he said, watching the youngster potting balls quickly securing rewards like outdated technology.

O'Sullivan publicly claims that winning tournaments "aren't crucial."

However, he implied in the past that losing streaks help maintain motivation.

Almost two years since his last ranking title, but Davis believes turning fifty might inspire him.

"Who knows this milestone provides the impetus Ronnie needs to show his greatness," said Davis. "Everyone knows his genius, but Ronnie enjoys astonishing people.

"Should he claim this tournament, or the worlds, it would amaze the crowd… Achieving that a historic feat."