World Champion in Crisis: Luca Brecel’s Mysterious Season-Long Snooker Absence Deepens with Saudi Masters Withdrawal
Luca Brecel, the 2023 World Snooker Champion, has officially withdrawn from the upcoming Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters, continuing a prolonged absence from competitive play that has left fans and analysts questioning his current trajectory. The 30-year-old Belgian star has yet to feature in any event this season, having previously pulled out of the Championship League, the Wuhan Open qualifiers, and the British Open.
Brecel’s withdrawal from the Saudi event, reportedly for medical reasons, extends a difficult period for the former world number two, who has seen a dramatic fall in rankings. Once part of the sport’s elite top 16, he has now slipped to world number 39 following a string of underwhelming performances last season and his recent absence from the tour.
After his sensational world title win in 2023 — where he showcased flair, attacking brilliance, and composure — Brecel was tipped to become one of the sport’s leading figures for years to come. However, his form dipped noticeably in the months that followed. Struggling to recapture the level that earned him global recognition, Brecel managed only a handful of modest results and failed to mount any serious challenge in major tournaments.
His continued withdrawal from key events raises concerns not only about his physical health but also his mental readiness to return to the rigors of the professional circuit. With several ranking events on the horizon, the snooker world will be watching closely to see when — and if — Brecel makes his comeback. For now, his absence leaves a noticeable void in a season already shaping up to be highly competitive.
