SNOOKER referee Jan Verhaas has opened up about the time he was accused by Ronnie O’Sullivan of “playing with his conscience”.
Verhaas, 58, has taken control of six World Championship finals since becoming an official in 1991.
Jan Verhaas has lifted the lid on convincing Ronnie O’Sullivan to complete a 147Alamy
AlamyOSullivan was going to leave it as a 146 after being angered by the lack of prize[/caption]
But one of the Dutchman’s most iconic moments came at the 2010 World Open in Scotland when O’Sullivan faced Mark King.
The Rocket only had to pot the black to complete a stunning 147.
But he incredibly did not want to finish the frame after being told there was no prize for the achievement.
It led to the experienced referee persuading O’Sullivan to pot the finishing ball.
Reflecting on that day, Verhaas said: “That was just ridiculous that frame.
“He asked me after the first black what the prize is for the 147 and I didn’t know it at the time.
“When he found out there wasn’t a prize for the 147, he just left the black.
“I asked him to pot the black for the fans. Luckily he did.
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“He wasn’t happy that I asked him by the way. He said that I played with his conscience, but I’m glad that I did.
“I’m glad for the fans that I did. It’s one of those moments that will stick with you and the fans.
“I’ve known Ronnie since he was 12, we grew up together in the game of snooker. Obviously, I’ve always done my job properly.
“He respects me for that and we have mutual respect.
“That’s why he has always been good with me, I suppose.”
Verhaas revealed that he is calling it a day as a referee due to pain after being involved in a motorbike accident two years ago.
He will remain in the sport as a referee development manager and as a tournament director.
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