In a statement published on X, seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan confirmed his decision to withdraw from the German Masters, citing his desire to put his health and wellbeing first. This year, O’Sullivan has already won the World Grand Prix, the Masters, and the UK Championship.
World No. 1 in snooker Ronnie O’Sullivan has withdrawn from the German Masters scheduled for next week.
The 48-year-old, who has already claimed the World Grand Prix, UK Championship, and Masters titles this year, has decided to put his “health and wellbeing” first and will not compete in the Berlin event.
O’Sullivan decided it’s time to take a vacation after limping through his World Open qualifier against Alfie Burden in Barnsley earlier this week, which secured his spot in the tournament’s final stages.
O’Sullivan posted a statement on X saying, “I just want to let my fans in Germany know that sadly I’ve decided to withdraw from the German Masters next week.”
“I adore the occasion and the German supporters, but my health and happiness must come first.
“Despite what the tournament victories may suggest, I’ve had a demanding and demanding season thus far. I hope you can relate. I apologize for being unable to attend, and I hope to see you all soon.”
O’Sullivan, who has been granted special permission by World Snooker to wear trainers because of a foot issue, started the China Open qualifications off halfway through the fourth frame with Burden leading by 61.
After Burden leveled the score at 3-3, the seven-time world champion decided to take a little longer to start the fifth set as he fixed his shoes. Breaks of 83 and 58 eventually sealed the victory 5-3.
Following his victory over Zhou Yuelong in the second round of the Grand Prix in Leicester, O’Sullivan had expressed his desire for a break from snooker, which led to his decision to withdraw from the German Masters.
“I need to think about if I can continue, the way I’m feeling,” O’Sullivan said to ITV4, the tournament broadcaster.
“To be honest, it’s difficult, and the worst part is that you’re succeeding in competitions. To be honest with you, I’m not enjoying it. If I was getting pumped first round every match playing like that, it would be easy to make a decision.
“At the very least, I need a break, but nothing has changed in 25 or 30 years—it’s the same situation. It’s difficult not to do this years ago because it’s my job, but it’s all I’ve ever known.”
Leave a Reply