Tour rebels should miss World Championship – Murphy

Seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan, 48, has said he is open to any proposition and urged players to do what was best for them.

“There’s talk there might be another tour,” he said. “Every player has the right to do what they want. If I didn’t get what I want, am I prepared to walk away from the sport? The answer is yes.

“I want to be looked after, want to be pampered. Anyone who wants to pamper me and look after me, I’m your man.”

After his win over Murphy, 43-year-old Maguire also said he would consider any offers, although he had not received any yet.

“I’m only hearing it from other players and I think it’s good if someone else is interested,” said the Scot.

“Some of the numbers that are getting thrown around, it’s interesting. My ears are always open, I’m always listening, always looking. I’ve not been approached but my door is always open.”

Only the top 16 players qualify automatically for certain WST events and two-time World Championship semi-finalist Maguire, ranked 28th, has not hidden his dislike of qualifying events – which are often untelevised with small crowds.

“If there’s another opportunity that does not mean Barnsley or Leicester I would seriously think about it. If there was a few years’ guarantee, why not?” he said.

“Something is happening in the background. I’m not on social media so don’t really hear things, unless people say ‘Stevie, this is what’s happening’. I’m looking and listening. My phone is always on.”