Ronnie O’Sullivan apologises to snooker followers over his ‘last-minute well being selections’
Ronnie O’Sullivan has apologised to snooker fans as the sporting legend made a last-minute decision to withdraw from the Welsh Open and his absence continues
Ronnie O’Sullivan released a statement apologising to snooker fans after withdrawing from the Welsh Open.
‘The Rocket’ was scheduled to begin his campaign in Llandudno against Jamie Clarke, but O’Sullivan withdrew from the event at the last moment, seeing Clarke awarded a bye.
O’Sullivan took to X to apologise to fans and explain his absence, he wrote: “I realise plenty of people who bought tickets to some recent snooker events will have been frustrated when I withdrew, so I just wanted to say sorry to those of you who’ve been disappointed with me having to pull out of those tournaments.
“I’ve been trying to prioritise my health and well-being, which sometimes means making last-minute decisions not to play. It’s never an easy decision and I hate letting people down. I’m doing what I can to get back to my best, and I’m grateful for all your support and understanding.”
Fans sent their support to O’Sullivan in the comments section of his post, with one user saying: “Can only do what’s best for you champ. Speedy recovery”.
A second said: “Don’t be sorry, you have to look after yourself. People may be gutted they won’t get to see you play but I bet 99% would place your wellbeing above that disappointment. Look forward to seeing you in future tournaments when you’re feeling better Ronnie”.
With a third adding: “You focus on getting well and feeling well. That’s all that matters – that’s life. Snooker is a small part of it and I’m sure people will have seen plenty of talent at those events. Get well and lift the world title again.”
Following O’Sullivan withdrawal, Clarke spoke to the BBC about his disappointment at not being able to play the seven-time world champion. “Yeah I think there was [disappointment], when I got the phone call this morning,”
“Maybe 20% was disappointed because he’s coming towards the end of his career.
“You don’t get many chances to play Ronnie. He picks and chooses his events, and rightly so. I was probably more happy than not happy, but it would have been nice to play him.”
O’Sullivan hasn’t played since the Championship League on January 9. ‘The Rocket’ has been missing from the scene since he broke his cue and hit the table during his frustrating exit from that competition. He also dramatically withdrew from the Masters just over a day before his scheduled match with rival John Higgins.
