NEILY IN TEARS
Snooker ace Neil Robertson emotional as he wins special award that when he first heard about ‘made me feel quite edgy’
See how the Thunder from Down Under's stats compare to O'Sullivan and the other greats
NEIL ROBERTSON is hoping that when he flies to Australia to pick up a prestigious individual gong he will be bringing the Crucible trophy home.
The Melbourne-born cueist has been awarded the Medal of the Order by the Australian Government – which means he can have the OAM title after his full name.
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This is in recognition of his outstanding achievements and service in the sport of snooker, specifically his world title win in Sheffield 15 years ago.
At some point, he will need to fly to Oz to receive the honour from officials – possibly in the capital Canberra – and the dream would be to go there with some extra silverware in his suitcase.
Robertson, 42, said: “That would be sensational, wouldn’t it? That would be awesome. To win at the Crucible before going out there.
“I believe there are events in April, May and September where you can pick up the OAM.
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“So, I am hoping the May one is in the middle of the month after the Crucible has finished.
“That would be perfect timing, go home, see my family, That would be a really, really proud moment.”
Robertson, winner of 24 ranking titles, is arguably the most successful snooker player from outside the UK and Ireland.
In his career, he has hit five maximum breaks and only Ronnie O’Sullivan, Judd Trump and John Higgins have hit more centuries than the left hander’s mark of 972.
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The Thunder from Down Under said: “I received an email in December saying I would be considered for the award.
“It made me feel quite edgy. I was so excited but I didn’t know how much of a formality it would be. Or if I’d miss out.
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“In some sports you have Hall of Fame nominations and some people never ever get in or only when they retire.
“You want these awards while you are competing at the top of the sport.
“I then got an email saying it would be announced on January 26 – Australia Day – and I was full of emotion.
“You never think you will get something like this.
“Especially an Australian playing snooker. Australia doesn’t just hand out awards in sport.
“You need to be a big winner. I think I have definitely been that. I am happy to get the honour for sure.
“I’ve seen Ronnie and Stephen Hendry get various honours in Britain.
“So to get that myself through snooker and join them with the Australian version, I’m really proud.
“My legacy extends beyond Australia. I have been a big inspiration to overseas players.
“Before I came along, and Ding Junhui as well, nobody had had huge success on a consistent basis.
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“I think between us we have combined for nearly 40 ranking events.
“We have left an amazing legacy behind and inspired others to see that it’s possible to come from the other side of the world to have a successful career in snooker.”
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