John Higgins sent a message to an absent Ronnie O’Sullivan. (Image: BBC / Getty.)
told that “health is more important” in a heartwarming message after his long-time rival pulled out of the .
The Rocket was scheduled to face Higgins in the opening match of the Triple Crown event, but . was called up to replace him.
Frustration was clear for all to see on O’Sullivan’s face last time out in the Championship League. He and effectively gave up late on, smashing into the pack.
He withdrew from his remaining match that same afternoon against and few were surprised when he made the same announcement to pull out of the Masters.
When hearing of the news that he would not get to face O’Sullivan at the Masters, in what could have been the last time the pair ever play each other, Higgins reached out and wished the seven-time world champion well.
Higgins told the : “Gutted that I wasn’t playing Ronnie. We played here 30 years ago in a final so it would have been good to walk out there again with him.
“But listen, his health is more important. If he’s going through some tough times just now. I just hope he gets better.”
John Higgins took on Neil Robertson rather than Ronnie O’Sullivan at the Masters. (Image: Getty)
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Jimmy White has , telling Eurosport: “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.”
The 49-year-old received a warm reception by those inside Alexandra Palace who were expecting to watch him play, before .
, who was moonlighting as a pundit and commentator for the Beeb in addition to his playing duties, echoed Higgins’ sentiments: “You could see the frustration whenever Ronnie was playing the other day.
“But sometimes it is not snooker that causes that it can be outside things so you never really know what is going on. We all wish Ronnie well because snooker is better with him.
“He could turn up at one of the most obscure events or he might just wait to the and tease us all. Just wish him well. He will pick and choose when he wants to come back.”