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Ronnie O’Sullivan pulls out of Welsh Open as snooker star suffers ‘stage fright’

Even the largest of snooker superstars nonetheless get nervous, it appears.

Ronnie O’Sullivan has introduced he will not be competing at this 12 months’s Welsh Open after coming down with a case of stage fright. The competitors is because of start on Monday in Llandudno, the place ‘The Rocket’ was on account of function among the many favourites after already profitable the Masters this 12 months.

However, the 48-year-old took to social media to tell his followers he sadly would not be competing for a fifth Welsh Open title. And the explanation why is certain to take many unexpectedly.



Ronnie O'Sullivan scrunches up his face as he decides what shot to make
O’Sullivan has gained the Welsh Open on 4 events – solely John Higgins (5) has gained extra

“Morning guys, I wanted to let you know that I’ve decided I’m not able to play in Llandudno next week,” mentioned the seven-time world champion on X (previously Twitter). “It’s hard to explain but for years I’ve suffered from stage fright at times, brought on by anxiety.

“It’s not one thing I can predict or management however I attempt to handle it as greatest as I can. I’m sorry to everybody who’s purchased tickets however I simply cannot get my cue out once I really feel like this and I believe this [is] what’s greatest for me proper now.”

O’Sullivan went on to confirm that while he won’t be playing, he’ll still be in Llandudno performing media duties with Eurosport. The Rocket not long ago named the Welsh town as his favourite UK venue.

More to follow.

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