Five-time world snooker champion Ronnie O'Sullivan faces sanctions from the game's governing body after failing to fulfil media requirements following his first round victory over David Gilbert.

The Chigwell star held a 6-3 lead overnight and looked his usual slick self for the most part when he returned this morning to complete a 10-7 victory and book his place in round two for a 13th successive season.

But the 40-year-old, never far from controversy, is libel to action from the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association, with a fine of £500 the likely punishment.

Following O'Sullivan's media no-show, a statement from World Snooker read: "All players have a responsibility to the sport, and in particular to their fans, this includes fulfilling media obligations at events. Any players found to be in breech of these rules will be referred to the disciplinary process." 

The pair shared the opening four frames on Monday, O'Sullivan knocking in his first century of the match, 101, in frame 12.

Gilbert appeared to be right back in the contest when he pinched frame 14 after O'Sullivan went in off after amassing a 47-point lead.

But, in truth, the qualifier had left himself too much to do and O'Sullivan's quest to win a sixth-world title, and equal the record of the now-retired Steve Davis, continues.

“His all-round game is just unbelievable,” said Gilbert of O'Sullivan. “Once he gets you snookered, you're snookered at every shot, he is just so clever.

“If Ronnie plays well he is going to take some beating here.

“It was an honour to play the legend that is Ronnie O'Sullivan, the guy is amazing.”

Watch the World Championship LIVE on Eurosport, with Colin Murray and analysis from Jimmy White and Ronnie O’Sullivan.