Ronnie O'Sullivan Out of Masters on Medical Grounds

Ronnie O’Sullivan has withdrawn from the Masters on medical grounds. The 49-year-old had aimed to win a record-extending ninth title and was scheduled to face John Higgins in a highly anticipated opening match on Sunday at Alexandra Palace. O’Sullivan’s withdrawal allows Neil Robertson, ranked 17th at the seeding cutoff in December to take his place in the tournament. O’Sullivan, one of the most decorated players in snooker history has won 41 ranking events and seven world titles since turning professional in 1992.

He claimed his first Masters victory in 1995 at just 19 years old. Last year, at the age of 48, he became the oldest-ever winner of the Masters, further enhancing his illustrious career. The Englishman had previously pulled out of the Masters in 2020. This week, he also withdrew from the Championship League, citing frustration with his performance. In a group-stage loss to Robert Milkins on Thursday, O’Sullivan showed visible frustration even striking his cue against the table after missing an easy pink.

Reports later indicated that Ronnie O’Sullivan threw his cue into a bin, though someone retrieved it later. Robertson like Higgins is a two-time Masters winner with his most recent triumph coming in 2022. His inclusion in the tournament presents a major opportunity as he replaces world number one O’Sullivan. The Masters, one of snooker’s most prestigious invitational events, features the top 16 players in the world. Robertson’s entry ensures the high level of competition will remain intact despite O’Sullivan’s absence.