Reigning champion Ronnie O’Sullivan has withdrawn from the upcoming Johnstone’s Paint Masters on medical grounds. The world number three, who was won the competition eight times, was due to face John Higgins in the opening match on Sunday afternoon.

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

Defending champion Ronnie OSullivan withdraws from the Masters just a couple of days before the start of the tournament; The Rocket had been due to play fellow Class of 92 legend John Higgins in the f

Ronnie O'Sullivan has withdrawn from the Championship League tournament, just days before his first round match against John Higgins at the Masters.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.

Ronnie O’Sullivan has withdrawn from the Masters and will not defend his title at Alexandra Palace this month. World Snooker Tour confirmed on Friday morning that the Rocket has withdrawn ‘on medical grounds’ and will be replaced in the draw by Neil Robertson.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