Ronnie O’Sullivan won’t defend his Masters title (Image: Getty)
Jimmy White has issued an update on Ronnie O’Sullivan following the Rocket’s with withdrawal from the Masters. The icon will be which he won for a record-extending eighth time 12 months ago, with his place being taken by Neil Robertson.
His withdrawal, on medical grounds, came a day after he before his final scheduled group match. After a run of disappointing results, which saw him lose three out of four matches on Wednesday, his frustrations boiled over during Thursday’s action.
While leading Robert Milkins 2-1, O’Sullivan lost it after missing a simple pink to a corner pocket, smashing his cue on the table before going on to lose 3-2. He is then rumoured to have dumped the cue in a bin before withdrawing from the tournament and leaving the Leicester venue before his final group match against Ali Carter.
Confirmation that he wouldn’t be defending his Masters title followed on Friday. His behaviour at the Championship League sparked concerns for O’Sullivan’s wellbeing, but issued a positive update at the start of Eurosport’s coverage of the tournament.
“It’s a little bit disappointing for everyone but he’s such a perfectionist,” said White, who revealed White could even make an appearance in the Eurosport studio during the tournament.
“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. 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 weren’t right. We’ll have to wait and see and speak to him.”
More to follow.