Ronnie O'Sullivan Withdraws from Masters for Medical Reasons

Ronnie O'Sullivan, the seven-time world snooker champion and record eight-time winner of the Masters, has withdrawn from the prestigious tournament at Alexandra Palace in London for medical reasons, organizers announced less than 48 hours before the event begins on Sunday, January 11, 2026. The 50-year-old Englishman was scheduled to open his campaign against Australia's Neil Robertson on Wednesday, January 14, at 7 p.m. GMT, but Chris Wakelin will now take his place in the draw as the 17th seed at the cutoff point.

World Snooker confirmed the withdrawal in a statement, noting that the exact nature of O'Sullivan's medical condition has not been disclosed. This marks the second consecutive year the world number eight has opted out of the invitational event, which runs through January 18 and features the top 16 players in the rankings. Last year, O'Sullivan cited similar health concerns amid a period of mental strain, during which he snapped his cue in frustration at the Championship League the week prior.

O'Sullivan's absence comes at a time when he has scaled back his UK appearances following his move to Dubai last summer. He has competed more frequently in Asia, including two...