O’Sullivan Snubs English Open as Controversial Brecel Walkout Sets Stage for Thrilling Showdown with Jimmy White
Ronnie O’Sullivan, a seven-time world champion, has opted out of the upcoming English Open in Brentwood, Essex, set to run from September 11 to 21. His absence from the draw, released by World Snooker Tour, marks the second time in recent weeks that the iconic player has chosen to skip an event. After reaching the final of the Saudi Arabia Masters last month, where he lost an intense 10-9 battle to Neil Robertson, O’Sullivan also decided to pull out of the Wuhan Open, another high-profile ranking event.
Meanwhile, 2023 World Champion Luca Brecel is back in action after a controversial exit from his Xi’an Grand Prix qualifier in China. Brecel, who had been trailing Sunny Akani 2-0 and 40-1 in the third frame, shockingly quit the match, citing problems with his cue. His unexpected walkout has sparked a potential disciplinary investigation, and his ranking has now dropped to 41st.
Brecel is set to face 12-time Women’s World Champion Reanne Evans in the Northern Ireland Open qualifying rounds this Sunday. However, his next major test could be at the English Open, where he is due to meet six-time World finalist Jimmy ‘Whirlwind’ White if he gets past his first opponent in the tournament. White, who faces Cheung Ka Wai in his opening match on Thursday, September 11, could set up a thrilling second-round clash with Brecel on Saturday, September 13.
Top seed Neil Robertson, who won last year’s English Open with a 9-7 victory over Wu Yize, will also defend his title in a competitive field. The first round for the top 32 seeds will begin on September 15, with O’Sullivan’s absence leaving a gap in what promises to be an exciting and drama-filled tournament.
