Ronnie O’Sullivan will not defend his Masters title after withdrawing from the tournament, with Jimmy White issuing an update on his friend as the action got under way
Ronnie O’Sullivan is “fine” following his late withdrawal from the Masters, friend Jimmy White has revealed.
The world number three, an eight-time Masters winner, was due to face John Higgins in the opening match, only to pull out on Friday. Neil Robertson has replaced O’Sullivan in at the tournament, which runs until January 19 at London’s Alexandra Palace.
The news followed reports the seven-time world champion threw his cue in the bin on Thursday as he withdrew from the Championship League. The 49-year-old played four matches in the competition on Wednesday, losing three of them, and seemed to have trouble with his cue tip.
He then whacked his cue on the table in frustration and lashed the white ball into a group of reds during his defeat to Rob Milkins on Thursday before pulling out of the non-ranking event ahead of a scheduled afternoon meeting with Ali Carter.
Confirmation that he would not be defending his Masters crown followed a day later. His outburst at the Championship League sparked concerns for O’Sullivan’s wellbeing, but White has given a positive update on his close pal.
Speaking at the start of Eurosport’s coverage of the tournament, White said: “It’s a little bit disappointing for everyone but he’s such a perfectionist.
“I spoke to him yesterday. He’s fine. He’s got a few things to sort out. He always wants to give 100 per cent.”
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White also revealed that O’Sullivan could make an appearance in the Eurosport studio during the tournament. The Whirlwind added: “Hopefully he’ll be coming in the studio and be explaining a bit more in detail.
“But he’s fine. He just likes to perform at his best and he just thinks a few things aren’t right. We’ll have to wait and see and speak to him.”
Robertson, as the leading out player outside the top 16, stepped in to face Higgins as the invitational tournament got under way on Sunday afternoon.
