Ronnie O’Sullivan has withdrawn from the upcoming Masters tournament at Alexandra Palace at short notice “on medical grounds”.

Ronnie O’Sullivan has withdrawn from the Masters and will not defend his title at Alexandra Palace this month. World Snooker Tour confirmed on Friday morning that the Rocket has withdrawn ‘on medical grounds’ and will be replaced in the draw by Neil Robertson.

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 Last year’s champion O’Sullivan was due to face John Higgins in the opening match on Sunday afternoon, but has withdrawn on medical grounds.”

Record eight-times Masters champion Ronnie O'Sullivan has withdrawn from this year's tournament on medical grounds, organisers said on Friday.

Snooker star Ronnie O'Sullivan has withdrawn from the Masters on medical grounds at Alexandra Palace, bringing his quest for a record-extending ninth title to an end.

Ronnie O'Sullivan has withdrawn from The Masters because of medical reasons.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.

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.

Defending champion Ronnie O'Sullivan has withdrawn from the Masters on medical grounds. O'Sullivan, 49, was aiming to win a record-extending ninth title, and had been set to face John Higgins in a blockbuster opening to the tournament at Alexandra Palace on Sunday.