Ronnie gets a rocket...but no fine

Ronnie O'Sullivan pictured at the Crucible Theatre this week

Ronnie O'Sullivan escaped with a slap on the wrist after snubbing a mandatory post-match press conference following his first-round win at the World Championship at Sheffield's Crucible Theatre.

World Snooker announced that ‘The Rocket’ was warned and told he will be fined for any further breaches of discipline.

In a statement, World Snooker said: “Ronnie O’Sullivan has received a formal warning following his failure to fulfil media obligations at the Betfred World Championship on Monday.

“This is in line with World Snooker procedure as it is his first breach of contract this season. Any further breaches will result in a fine and possible referral to the WPBSA (World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association).”

Five-time world champion O’Sullivan beat David Gilbert 10-7 to secure his place in the last 16 at the Crucible.

As well as refusing to attend the press conference, O’Sullivan declined to talk to tournament broadcasters the BBC.

A small fine had been expected, and in the absence of that O’Sullivan will know he is on a last chance.