English snooker player Ronnie O'Sullivan turned down the chance of a maximum 147 break at the Welsh Open because he felt the £10,000 prize money was "too cheap" - £10,000 is about NZ$22,000.
English snooker player Ronnie O'Sullivan Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The five-time world champion had potted 14 reds and 13 blacks, but opted for an easier pink as he made a 146 to beat Barry Pinches 4-1 in round one.
"I knew it was £10,000. If it had been more, I'd have gone for the 147," O'Sullivan told BBC Sport.
There was also £2,000 on offer for the highest break of the tournament.
The £10,000 is a rolling prize fund at ranking events which has not been won since Neil Robertson made a 147 at the UK Championship last year.
The prize fund would be shared between players who make a maximum break at the same tournament.
Englishman O'Sullivan had scored 80 in the break when he asked an official what the prize was for the highest break. He was also asking the commentary box for information and looked visibly disappointed when told he could win up to £12,000.
"I could have done it, but I didn't think the prize was worthy of a 147. So I've tried to let it build up until it's worthy and then go for it," he said.
"It's like going into a Mercedes garage and when they say that you can have the car for £3,000, you reply, 'No way, that's too cheap. I'm not buying it for that'.
"Certain things have value, and a 147 is a special moment. I want it to feel special all round.
"But the punters still got value for money today. Now they've got something more to look forward to. There's still room for improvement.
"You like to entertain your fans. It's like a film. You want them to come back and watch the next one.
"There is no point in giving them the best ending they've ever had. Leave room for a better ending next time."
-BBC
