Ronnie O'Sullivan has slammed Masters snooker venue Alexandra Palace, claiming it is "disgusting" and makes him "feel ill".

The Rocket progressed to the semi-final of the event with a 6-3 victory over Barry Hawkins on Thursday but was in no mood to celebrate.

He revealed he cannot wait to go home after becoming fed up with the building, which has hosted the tournament since 2012.

The seven-time champion said: "I just don't like this place. I find it disgusting.

"Everywhere is dirty. It's cold. It's freezing. I have to wear my coat everywhere. 

"You go through car parks. There are bins. Honestly, it just makes me feel ill.

"I'm a bit of a clean freak and when I come in here it gives me the heebie-jeebies. I just can't wait to get out of here."

Flying insects have regularly affected play this week and Hawkins' first-round match with Neil Robertson was stopped to deal with a wasp on the table.

But the venue has also received widespread acclaim for producing arguably the best atmosphere in snooker.

The World Snooker Tour said: "We work alongside Alexandra Palace to provide the best possible conditions for players on and off the table.

"All other players have spoken with unanimous positivity about the venue. Fans love coming here. 

"This is underlined by record ticket sales and the fact that all standard admission seats sold out ahead of this year's tournament."

O'Sullivan will take on Shaun Murphy on Saturday for a place in Sunday's final, where he could lift his 23rd Triple Crown title.