Ronnie O’Sullivan will be making a comeback next month. (Image: Getty)
legend is set to make a comeback at the World Grand Prix in March.
The Rocket, who has been absent from competitive snooker since early January, withdrew from a highly anticipated Masters match against John Higgins just days before it was scheduled.
After missing the German Masters and a last-minute withdrawal from the Welsh Open, he’s now ready to return to the baize at the World Grand Prix in Hong Kong, where he’ll face Si Jiahui on March 5.
Following his withdrawal from the World Open prior to the Grand Prix, fans feared it might signal the end for the seven-time world champion.
However, he’s assured organisers in Hong Kong that he’s “excited” to return to a region where his fame rivals that in his home country.
In a brief statement, O’Sullivan said: “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.”
A WST statement released on February 18 attributed his absence from the World Open to “medical reasons”, with O’Sullivan expressing sincere regret to fans who had hoped to see him compete at the Welsh Open earlier in the month.
Fans in Hong Kong will witness Ronnie O’Sullivan’s comeback (Image: Getty)
He explained: “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.”
The snooker legend opened up about the challenges he faces, expressing his reluctance to disappoint fans and his commitment to returning to peak form, while appreciating the unwavering support from his followers.
Meanwhile, on his Snooker Club podcast, fellow seven-time world champion Stephen Hendry weighed in on whether Ronnie O’Sullivan would participate in the upcoming tournament in March, saying: “He does like playing in China; he’s loved over there, and I’d be shocked if he didn’t play in Hong Kong. But I don’t know what to think about what’s going on really.”
Hendry acknowledged O’Sullivan’s popularity in China and expressed surprise at the prospect of him not playing in Hong Kong, yet admitted uncertainty regarding the current situation.
This article first appeared on the .