Ronnie O’Sullivan Withdraws From Masters Snooker Tournament on Medical Grounds

The eight-time champion and defending titleholder is replaced by Neil Robertson, who will face John Higgins in the opening match.

Ronnie O’Sullivan, a seven-time world champion and reigning Masters champion, has pulled out of the 2025 Masters tournament due to medical reasons.
O’Sullivan was scheduled to face long-time rival John Higgins in the tournament’s opening match on Sunday at Alexandra Palace in London.
Neil Robertson, a two-time Masters champion and world No. 17, has been named as O’Sullivan’s replacement and will now compete against Higgins.
The withdrawal follows a turbulent week for O’Sullivan, who struggled in the Championship League event, smashing his cue in frustration and exiting the competition early.
This is not the first time O’Sullivan has withdrawn from a major event at short notice, raising questions about his recent form and health.