Ronnie O’Sullivan has withdrawn from the upcoming Masters tournament at Alexandra Palace at short notice “on medical grounds”.

Ronnie O'Sullivan will not be defending his 2024 Masters title when the 2025 tournament kicks off this month at Alexandra Palace. O'Sullivan beat Ali Carter in the 2024 final, but his defence of the other Triple Crown event,

Ronnie O'Sullivan had been due to begin the defence of his Masters title on Sunday against John Higgins but has been replaced in the draw by Neil Robertson

The Rocket has pulled out of his attempt to secure a ninth Masters crown at the 11th hour with organisers citing 'health issues'

Ronnie O'Sullivan has pulled out of the 2025 Masters, it was confirmed on Friday. The defending champion was due to play John Higgins in the first round.

A statement from the World Snooker Tour read: “Neil Robertson has replaced Ronnie O’Sullivan in the draw for the upcoming Johnstone’s Paint Masters. Last year’s champion O’Sullivan was due to face John Higgins in the opening match on Sunday afternoon, but has withdrawn on medical grounds.”

Record eight-times Masters champion Ronnie O'Sullivan has withdrawn from this year's tournament on medical grounds, organisers said on Friday.

Snooker star Ronnie O'Sullivan has withdrawn from the Masters on medical grounds at Alexandra Palace, bringing his quest for a record-extending ninth title to an end.

Neil Robertson has wished Ronnie O'Sullivan well after he was added to The Masters line-up following the Rocket's withdrawal from the prestigious snooker tournament on medical grounds. The second Triple Crown event of the season is set to begin this Sunday at Alexandra Palace in London.

Ronnie O’Sullivan has withdrawn from the Masters and will not defend his title at Alexandra Palace this month. World Snooker Tour confirmed on Friday morning that the Rocket has withdrawn ‘on medical grounds’ and will be replaced in the draw by Neil Robertson.