Ronnie O’Sullivan has withdrawn from the Masters and will not defend his title at Alexandra Palace this month. World Snooker Tour confirmed on Friday morning that the Rocket has withdrawn ‘on medical grounds’ and will be replaced in the draw by Neil Robertson.

Ronnie O’Sullivan has withdrawn from the upcoming Masters tournament at Alexandra Palace at short notice “on medical grounds”.

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Defending champion Ronnie O'Sullivan has withdrawn from the Masters on medical grounds. O'Sullivan, 49, was aiming to win a record-extending ninth title, and had been set to face John Higgins in a blockbuster opening to the tournament at Alexandra Palace on Sunday.

Ronnie O'Sullivan withdraws from Masters defence on 'medical grounds' as Neil Robertson takes his place - The 49-year-old withdrew from the Champions League this week after a frustrated display

The Rocket has pulled out of his attempt to secure a ninth Masters crown at the 11th hour with organisers citing 'health issues'

Masters has been dealt a huge blow with defending champion Ronnie O'Sullivan withdrawing from the tournament. The World Snooker Tour confirmed O'Sullivan's withdrawal on Friday morning, announcing Neil Roberston would be replacing him.

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,

Ronnie O'Sullivan has been forced to withdraw from The Masters due to medical reasons, with Neil Robertson stepping in to face John Higgins in the first round

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