Ronnie O'Sullivan claimed he had not been at his best in winning his third 888.com World Championship tonight.

O'Sullivan, having been outstanding throughout the tournament, secured his third title by completing an 18-8 success over Ali Carter at Sheffield's Crucible Theatre.

O'Sullivan told BBC Sport: "I'm just happy to have won, it was was tough.

"When you get ahead you are always thinking at the back of your mind, if you lose it from here it is going to be a killer.

"Sometimes it is better when it is closer, sometimes when trying to protect a lead it is hard.

"I wasn't playing fantastic every session, but you don't need to be to win this. It is about doing it in some sessions.

"Ali and I are disappointed not to put on a better performance but we love the pressure and excitement at The Crucible."

O'Sullivan now hopes to win more titles, but admits he might still consider taking "a break".

He added: "Hopefully it is not the last, hopefully there are a few more to come.

"I said I would like to win more, but it is quite well documented that I struggle with the game.

"Sometimes I think it would be good to go out on a high. I will have a think and it might be a good time to take a break."

Despite his defeat, Carter still enjoyed a fine tournament and tied O'Sullivan for highest break with a maximum 147.

Carter said: "I am pleased to get to the final. I am disappointed not to perform at my best but it is very tiring.

"Ronnie made it very difficult. He safety was brilliant and the better man won on the day.

"The top eight in the world, a maximum and the final of the World Championship - I would have taken that at the start."

More news from SportingLife.com