Snooker legend Ronnie O’Sullivan has withdrawn from the 2026 Masters for medical reasons, marking the second consecutive year the seven-time world champion has been forced to pull out of one of the sport’s most prestigious events.

The 50-year-old, currently ranked world number eight, was due to face Neil Robertson in a blockbuster first-round match on Wednesday at Alexandra Palace, but has now been replaced in the draw by Scottish Open champion Chris Wakelin.

Second Straight Masters Withdrawal

O’Sullivan, who won a record-extending eighth Masters title in 2024, also withdrew from the tournament last year on medical grounds. While the exact nature of his condition has not been disclosed, the decision continues a recent pattern of withdrawals linked to health and wellbeing concerns.

The Englishman described pulling out of the 2025 Masters as a “nightmare decision,” previously admitting he was under intense pressure and had “lost the plot” during that period.

Long History at the Masters

Nicknamed “The Rocket,” O’Sullivan claimed his first Masters crown in 1995 at just 19 years old, launching what would become one of the most decorated careers in snooker history. Since turning professional in 1992, he has amassed:

• 7 World Championship titles
• 8 Masters titles
• 8 UK Championship titles

His absence will be keenly felt by fans, as O’Sullivan traditionally receives one of the loudest receptions at Ally Pally, and his match against Robertson — a two-time Masters winner — was widely regarded as the standout tie of the opening round.

Replacement Confirmed as Chris Wakelin

With O’Sullivan withdrawing, Chris Wakelin steps into the draw to face Robertson. Wakelin arrives in strong form, having already lifted the Scottish Open title this season, and will now get the opportunity to compete on one of snooker’s biggest stages.

Recent Tournament Withdrawals and Mental Health Focus

In recent years, O’Sullivan has cited medical reasons or the need to prioritise his mental health when withdrawing from several events, including the British Open, Wuhan Open, and World Grand Prix.

Now living in Dubai with his family, the snooker great last competed at the UK Championship in December, where he suffered a 6–4 first-round defeat to China’s Zhou Yuelong at York Barbican.

Following that loss, O’Sullivan said he was uncertain whether he would play at the Masters, explaining he would reassess his condition in January before making a final decision.

What’s Next for O’Sullivan?

With the Masters now ruled out, O’Sullivan’s next opportunity to compete in the UK could come at:

• The Tour Championship in Manchester (late March), or
• The World Championship at the Crucible in Sheffield (April)

Whether he returns for either event will depend on his recovery and readiness to compete.

Disappointment for Fans and the Tournament

BBC 5 Live Snooker reporter Jamie Broughton noted that O’Sullivan’s withdrawal is a major blow to the event, given the Masters’ elite status as a Triple Crown tournament featuring only the world’s top 16 players.

For fans, missing out on another O’Sullivan appearance at Alexandra Palace is a disappointment — especially with his milestone 50th year adding further significance to his appearances this season.