The tournament concluded with a dominant performance by Ronnie O’Sullivan, who defeated Scotland's Graeme Dott in the final. Prize Money Ronnie O’Sullivan (ENG) 18 £250,000 Runner-up Graeme Dott (SCO) Semi-finalists Stephen Hendry , Matthew Stevens Quarter-finalists Joe Perry , David Gray, Anthony Hamilton, Ian McCulloch Key Tournament Highlights
: Despite eventually winning 18–8, O'Sullivan initially trailed 0–5 to Graeme Dott in the first session before staging a massive recovery. World Championship Snooker 2004
: Mark Williams entered as the defending champion but was eliminated in the second round, losing 11–13 to Joe Perry. Notable Records and Debuts The tournament concluded with a dominant performance by
The 2004 championship remains a significant chapter in the World Snooker Tour , representing the peak of the "modern era" where O'Sullivan began his ascent to matching Stephen Hendry's then-record of seven world titles. Notable Records and Debuts The 2004 championship remains
: Much of O’Sullivan’s tactical discipline during the event was attributed to the coaching of Ray Reardon , nicknamed "Dracula," who helped him refine his "Plan B" safety game.
: O'Sullivan became only the fourth player to win the World title more than once at the Crucible Theatre.