Ronnie O`Sullivan sets new career century record

London: Ronnie O`Sullivan took sole possession of the record for most professional career century breaks when he posted his 776th three-figure contribution on Thursday.

O`Sullivan set a new mark in the opening frame of his Masters quarter-final against Hong Kong`s Marco Fu at London`s Alexandra Palace, having equalled fellow multiple former world champion Stephen Hendry`s record of 775 centuries with two hundreds during his tournament-opening win over Ricky Walden on Tuesday.

Hendry, now commentating for BBC television, said of O`Sullivan`s latest hundred: "It hasn`t been in doubt from very early on. Every shot has been cued to perfection."

Local hero O`Sullivan was cheered to the echo by the crowd, who gave him a standing ovation when his break ended on 101 after `The Rocket` lost position on the final red.

Five-times Masters champion O`Sullivan raised his cue in acknowledgement of spectators` applause.

However, Fu kept his composure to win the second frame and level the best of 11 match at 1-1.