Ronnie O’Sullivan sends private message to followers over subsequent snooker event look
Ronnie O’Sullivan is set to resume his troubled season after confirming his participation in an upcoming tournament in Hong Kong, where he could be watched by up to 4,000 fans
Ronnie O’Sullivan has confirmed when snooker fans can see him in action again.
The Rocket has missed a host of tournaments this season for medical reasons, including the recent Welsh Open and the Masters. He will also be absent from the World Open in China, which begins on Sunday.
There had been suggestions that the 49-year-old maestro wouldn’t play again until the World Championship at the Crucible, which begins in April. But O’Sullivan has put those fears to bed by confirming he’ll be gracing the table at the World Grand Prix in Hong Kong from March 4.
In a video message reported by the South China Morning Post, the Rocket told fans: “I am really looking forward to coming to Hong Kong to play in the World Grand Prix. I have just been having a little break, to keep myself fresh. I am excited to see you all.”
O’Sullivan hadn’t competed since his appearance at the Championship League in January, when he snapped his cue in frustration and withdrew before his final group match. He went on to miss the Masters, the German Masters and the Welsh Open.
He subsequently apologised to fans after pulling out of the latter. O’Sullivan took to social media to express his regret, saying: “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.”
O’Sullivan is set to face Si Jiahui in the first round at the World Grand Prix, which is being held outside of the UK for the first time at Kai Tak Sports Park, which boasts a capacity of 4,000 and a record £700,000 prize fund, including £180,000 for the winner.
