Ronnie O’Sullivan Sparks Fury with Last-Minute Scottish Open Exit Amid Bold £400K Gold Ball Prize Drama

Snooker fans have expressed outrage following Ronnie O’Sullivan’s last-minute withdrawal from the Scottish Open, demanding penalties for what they see as a repeated pattern of no-shows. O’Sullivan, a seven-time world champion, was slated to face China’s Xing Zihao in the opening round, but his withdrawal was only announced after the tournament had already begun. Eurosport commentator Philip Studd broke the news during a first-round match between Mark Allen and He Guoqiang.

This marks the fourth tournament O’Sullivan has pulled out of this season, having already skipped the British Open, Wuhan Open, and Northern Ireland Open. Despite this, the snooker legend is expected to compete in next week’s Riyadh Season Snooker Championship.

His absence has reignited debates among fans, with some calling for strict penalties. “There should be punishment or points reduction for withdrawing without valid medical reasons,” one fan argued. Another remarked, “Surprise surprise. So predictable.”

The Scottish Open itself features an intriguing new rule. Each frame begins with a gold ball placed on the baulk cushion, aligned with the brown spot.

The ball remains on the table as long as a 147 maximum break is still achievable. Players who pot the gold ball as part of a 147 break will earn a massive £400,000 prize. The innovative format adds excitement, but O’Sullivan’s withdrawal has left fans divided, with some feeling his absence casts a shadow over the event.