Judd Trump says Ronnie O’Sullivan is “living on a different planet” after the five-time world champion claimed he would rather leave the current tour for a Champions’ League style tournament.

Trump, who beat David Lilley 6-0 in the opening round of the UK Championship, was also quick to defend tour organiser Barry Hearn and believes that most players are happy with the current format.

“He is living on a different planet to the rest of us. Money isn’t an issue for him – he has got such a strong following he is always going to be able to earn money in the game away from the table – when he retires he has got absolutely no worries”, said the 29-year-old.

“Personally, I think what Barry Hearn has done for us is amazing. The money is going up every year, the conditions are getting better I am more than happy with what is going on.

“Obviously you would always be happy to have another tour on the side and earn extra money but for most of the players I think we are all pretty happy.

“The rewards are there. If you practice you can dominate the game and you are going to earn one or two million pounds with the amount of prize money on offer.”

Watch the Snooker UK Championship LIVE on Eurosport and Eurosport Player with analysis from Jimmy White and Neal Foulds