Ronnie O’Sullivan has confirmed that he will compete at this year’s World Championship following his victory at last week’s Masters event.

The 40-year-old demolished world number eight Barry Hawkins 10-1 in the final of the tournament at Alexandra Palace to claim his sixth Masters crown.

His victory in the tournament was made even more impressive as he had only returned to competitive action at last month’s German Masters, where he suffered a shock defeat to Stuart Carrington, after an eight-month break from the sport.

The five-time world champion has now confirmed that he intends to compete at the Crucible in April, where he will be looking to improve on the quarter-final defeat he suffered to eventual champion Stuart Bingham in 2015.

O’Sullivan said: “I just want to enjoy this week and try and peak for the Worlds and have a good run.”

O’Sullivan admits that he is reaching the latter stages of his career and confirmed that he intends to savour every moment, as he bids to move to within one of Stephen Hendry’s record of seven world titles during 2016.

He continued: “There’s only so many tournaments you’ve got in you, so as you get towards 40 you’ve got to start trying to savour these moments. It’s just good to be playing.”

The Rocket has been installed as the 4.00 favourite to claim his first world title since 2013, with the tournament due to take place in Sheffield between April 16 and May 2. 2010 champion Neil Robertson is next best in the betting at 6.50, ahead of Judd Trump at 7.00 and world number one Mark Selby at 10.00.