Ronnie O’Sullivan Withdraws from German Masters Amid Health Concerns and Controversy

Ronnie O’Sullivan, the seven-time world snooker champion, has withdrawn from next week’s German Masters due to medical reasons, marking his second tournament withdrawal in January. Earlier this month, O’Sullivan pulled out of the prestigious Masters at Alexandra Palace, raising concerns about his current state of health and well-being.

The 49-year-old snooker legend has recently shown signs of exhaustion following a demanding three-week exhibition tour across Asia. The World Snooker Tour confirmed his withdrawal, stating, “Ronnie O’Sullivan has withdrawn from next week’s Machineseeker German Masters due to medical reasons.” As a result, his scheduled opponent, Dylan Emery, will advance to the last 32 of the tournament in Berlin by default.

O’Sullivan’s decision to step back from competition comes after a period of erratic behavior during recent matches. In a Champions League contest against Robert Milkins in Leicester, O’Sullivan lost his composure, smashing his cue on the table after missing a routine shot. He later apologized for the outburst but also drew criticism for an inappropriate gesture made during the same match. He subsequently withdrew from the Champions League event before his final group game.

Reflecting on his earlier withdrawal from the Masters, O’Sullivan attributed his struggles to the pressures of his exhibition commitments, stating, “I think I just exhausted myself. A lot of pressure while I was away built up, and it got too much.” He also admitted to “losing the plot” and snapping his cue in frustration, leaving it unplayable.

It remains uncertain when O’Sullivan will return to competitive action as fans and the snooker community wait for updates on his recovery.