Ronnie O'Sullivan admits his team's 'given up' on him as he laughs off question

Despite with a 13-9 victory over Si Jiahui, claims he is still grappling with self-doubt. The legend is now poised for a thrilling showdown with Zhao Xintong in the , who overcame Chris Wakelin in his quarter-final clash.

O'Sullivan, 49, had to battle with himself at times, particularly when he could be seen expressing his frustration If that was not difficult enough, he had to put up with a spirited performance from Si, who refused to go away. Nevertheless, O'Sullivan got it done and only Zhao stands between him and the final. While he has had to deal with self-doubt, O'Sullivan pointed out the person he feels has helped his game the most in recent weeks.

When quizzed by presenter Hazel Irvine about his support team, O'Sullivan laughed: "Team? I'm unhelpable. I think they've all given up after they've gone through the motions."

However, he did heap praise on psychiatrist Steve Peters, stating: "Steve has been amazing. I wouldn't have got round the first round without Steve. He's been incredible. I've tried to give it my best, which I have, and I'm just hanging in there."

When asked if he feels a difference when Peters is not around, O'Sullivan admitted: "If I could afford him then I'd have him every day. I'd be like [F1 star] Lance Stroll's dad, just write the check out and he's here full-time.

"But obviously he's a busy man who I couldn't afford to have full-time. So any little bits I try and time when I can have him. Sheffield is a big tournament and I try to have him around for this. I'd like to be playing a bit better to try and look forward to it. I don't feel rusty at all. I've only been playing for a month, but I don't feel rusty at all.

"I played eight tournaments this year, it's not that I haven't played, it's just that I was struggling so much that I couldn't face playing. I had a bit of time out and thought we'd give it a go. I'm not much better, but I think with the rest I'm able to handle it a bit better.

"It's getting harder [each session] because of the standard. With the standard of each session, I won't be able to get away with what I've got away with in the last three matches. I don't think I can get any worse. But we'll have to see."

O'Sullivan faces Zhao in the last-four, who has returned from a 20-month ban and is now competing as an amateur, for a spot in the final. The Rocket expressed his delight at seeing Zhao back in action, having previously likened him to a young Stephen Hendry.

The Rocket said: "He's such a talent. An amazing talent, and the game has missed him. It's good that he's back and playing well. To do what he's done here is incredible really."