Ronnie O’Sullivan has pulled out of the Masters two days before the tournament starts on medical grounds.
O’Sullivan claimed a record-extending eighth win at the tournament in 2024 but opted against defending his crown 12 months ago, giving the same reason as he has for his latest withdrawal.
The current world No 8 was due to get his campaign under way against Australia’s Neil Robertson, the world No 3, on Wednesday, but World Snooker announced Chris Wakelin will take the Englishman’s place.
O’Sullivan, who turned 50 last month, has issued contradictory statements about whether he would play at Alexandra Palace, telling TalkSport in September: “I probably won’t play the Masters this year.”
However, he later told The Sun in November he would play “if I can”, explaining his move to Dubai last summer meant he would have to pick and choose which tournaments to prioritise.
O’Sullivan was last in action before Christmas at the UK Championship, where he has won a record eight titles. He was eliminated in the first round by Zhou Yuelong.
He has missed several tournaments this season, including the Wuhan Open and the British Open, citing medical reasons or the need to prioritise his mental health.
World Snooker said in a statement: “Ronnie O’Sullivan has withdrawn from the Johnstone’s Paint Masters for medical reasons.
“O’Sullivan was due to face Neil Robertson in the opening round on Wednesday January 14th at 7pm. He has been replaced in the draw by Chris Wakelin who was 17th seed at the cut-off point. The tournament at Alexandra Palace in London runs from January 11-18.”
The exact nature of the medical condition has not been disclosed.
