O’Sullivan claimed a record-extending eighth win on the match in 2024
Ronnie O’Sullivan (Picture: Photograph by Tai Chengzhe/VCG through Getty Photos)
Ronnie O’Sullivan has pulled out of the Masters on medical grounds for the second yr in a row.
O’Sullivan claimed a record-extending eighth win on the match in 2024 however opted towards defending his crown 12 months in the past, giving the identical cause as he has for his newest withdrawal.
The present world quantity eight was because of get his marketing campaign underneath approach towards Australia’s Neil Robertson on Wednesday, however World Snooker introduced Chris Wakelin will as a substitute take the Englishman’s place.
O’Sullivan, who turned 50 final month, has issued contradictory statements about whether or not he would play at Alexandra Palace, telling talkSPORT in September: “I most likely gained’t play the Masters this yr.”
Nevertheless, O’Sullivan later instructed The Solar in November he would play “if I can”, explaining his transfer to Dubai final summer time meant he must choose and select what tournaments to prioritise.
O’Sullivan was final in motion earlier than Christmas on the UK Championship, the place he has gained a document eight titles though on this event he was eradicated within the first spherical after shedding to Zhou Yuelong.
World Snooker stated in an announcement: “Ronnie O’Sullivan has withdrawn from the Johnstone’s Paint Masters for medical causes.
“O’Sullivan was because of face Neil Robertson within the opening spherical on Wednesday January 14th at 7pm. He has been changed within the draw by Chris Wakelin who was seventeenth seed on the cut-off level.
“The match at Alexandra Palace in London run from January 11-18.”
The precise nature of the medical situation has not been disclosed.
