Ronnie O’Sullivan has withdrawn from the World Grand Prix due to medical reasons and will not return to competitive play until the World Championship next month.
Just three days before the tournament in Hong Kong, O’Sullivan confirmed he would not be defending his title. Last year, he claimed his third victory in the event by defeating Judd Trump in the final.
Hossein Vafaei has been named as O’Sullivan’s replacement and will face Si Jiahui in the first round on Wednesday.
In a statement, O’Sullivan expressed his disappointment at having to withdraw, stating that he was eager to make his comeback in Hong Kong and had put in his best effort but ultimately had to prioritize his health. He also thanked the tournament organizers and his Hong Kong fans for their support.
The seven-time world champion will now be sidelined for seven weeks, missing the World Grand Prix, Players Championship, and Tour Championship due to inactivity. His absence from these events has caused him to slip to 24th in the world rankings.
Since the Players Championship is limited to the top 16 and the Tour Championship to the top eight, O’Sullivan will not compete again until the World Championship at the Crucible, starting April 19. His first-round match there will be only his sixth of the year, with his previous five appearances coming in the Championship League behind closed doors.
O’Sullivan will be aiming to secure a record-breaking eighth world title in Sheffield, where he remains tied with Stephen Hendry at seven for the most modern-era championships.
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