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Ronnie O’Sullivan has withdrawn from the upcoming Masters tournament at Alexandra Palace at short notice “on medical grounds”.

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 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

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 Last year’s champion O’Sullivan was due to face John Higgins in the opening match on Sunday afternoon, but has withdrawn on medical grounds.”

Ronnie O'Sullivan has withdrawn from The Masters because of medical reasons. The defending champion had been due to face John Higgins on Sunday afternoon, but now won't compete at the event in London. Neil Robertson has been named as The Rocket's replacement and will feature in the tournament's opening match against Higgins.

The seven-time world champion has made a last-minute decision to pull out of this year's Masters, a day after whacking his cue on the table in frustration during a defeat to Rob Milkins.

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.