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

Ronnie O'Sullivan will look to defend his 2024 title, won by defeating Ali Carter in the final 12 months ago. However, his defence of the other Triple Crown event so far this season, the UK Championship,

Ronnie O'Sullivan has withdrawn from the Championship League tournament, just days before his first round match against John Higgins at the Masters. The 49-year-old is aiming to win a record-extending ninth Masters title in the coming days but his preparations for the much-anticipated event have been far from ideal.

Defending champion Ronnie O’Sullivan abandons Masters defence on health grounds - Neil Robertson has replaced O’Sullivan in the draw.

Ronnie O’Sullivan has withdrawn from the Masters and will not defend his title at Alexandra Palace this month. World Snooker Tour confirmed on Friday morning that the Rocket has withdrawn ‘on medical grounds’ and will be replaced in the draw by Neil Robertson.