World Grand Prix receive Ronnie O’Sullivan complaints as chief responds to fans
The World Grand Prix, one of the professional World Snooker Tour’s key ranking events, has recently attracted a wave of controversy and fan discontent — much of it tied directly or indirectly to the presence and actions of seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan and to organisational issues at the tournament.
At the heart of the latest issues is O’Sullivan’s participation in the event and his intermittent absences from the tour. The English star, widely regarded as one of snooker’s greatest players, has played only sporadically this season, choosing events selectively and citing personal and medical reasons for withdrawing from several tournaments. His inconsistency in attendance has frustrated some supporters who bought tickets expecting to see him compete.
In the 2025 World Grand Prix held in Hong Kong — the first time the event was staged outside the UK — O’Sullivan withdrew due to medical reasons, leaving fans disappointed that the defending champion wouldn’t be there to defend his title. Organisers faced a notable level of dissatisfaction from ticket holders, many of whom had expected to see one of the sport’s biggest stars in action. The local government’s Consumer Council reported multiple formal complaints, most relating to O’Sullivan’s absence and the communication around it.
That same year, another major issue flared when hundreds of spectators were unexpectedly asked to leave a late-night match mid-game. At Kai Tak Arena, the newly built sports venue in Hong Kong hosting the Grand Prix, a match between Kyren Wilson and Matthew Selt ran past a midnight curfew. Officials instructed fans to exit due to public transport restrictions, abruptly halting play and sparking outrage from those in attendance.
The Government of Hong Kong labelled the situation “highly unsatisfactory” and publicly criticised the lack of coordination between event organisers and venue operators. In response to the backlash, event officials issued a formal apology, acknowledged the frustration caused, and pledged to adjust arrangements so that spectators in the remainder of the tournament could stay through the end of matches, including arranging additional late-night transport options. They also offered ticket exchanges as a form of compensation.
O’Sullivan himself has been a divisive figure beyond just his attendance record. Throughout his illustrious career he has been openly critical of snooker’s governing bodies and tour organisation, at times complaining about everything from prize money distribution to the quality of tournament conditions. While many fans admire his candidness and legendary talent, his remarks have occasionally attracted rebukes from officials who say such comments hurt the sport’s image.
For the 2026 World Grand Prix, O’Sullivan is scheduled to compete in Hong Kong, and he received a warm welcome from fans on arrival, suggesting that despite the complaints and frustration, he remains a hugely popular attraction who can still draw strong public interest.
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