Neil Robertson and John Higgins kick off the 2025 Masters. (Image: Getty.)
and kickstart the 2025 after pulled out of the Triple Crown event on medical grounds.
O’Sullivan was scheduled to take on old foe Higgins, but pulled out this week and won’t get the chance to defend his title, with Robertson called up as his replacement.
Higgins has played in the prestigious invitational event every year since his debut in 1995, making a record-extending 31st appearance this afternoon.
And with O’Sullivan not competing, the remaining 16 players will all feel that they have a chance of scooping the £350,000 top prize.
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KEY EVENTS
- 13:03
Steve Davis’ theory on Ronnie O’Sullivan absence
Steve Davis has given his view on why Ronnie O’Sullivan isn’t competing in front of the Alexandra Palace crowd.
“Only assumptions but I think he is here this week working on TV,” Davis told the . “So maybe it’s not health reasons, physical health reasons.
“I assume, judging by the last tournament, that he is not enjoying his snooker. And if you are not enjoying your snooker, it’s best practice not to play.”
Is Ronnie O’Sullivan playing?
Ronnie O’Sullivan will not be defending his Masters crown this year, having pulled out of the competition this week.
The Rocket was due to face John Higgins in this afternoon’s opening session, but withdrew on medical grounds.
Neil Robertson is taking his place at Alexandra Palace.
Ronnie O’Sullivan will not be at the Masters. (Image: Getty)
Today’s schedule
What a day we have in store for us to kick off the Masters.
13:00
Neil Robertson v John Higgins
19:00
Shaun Murphy v Gary Wilson
Good afternoon
Hello and welcome to Express Sport’s live coverage of the Masters, featuring our opening match between Neil Robertson and John Higgins.