The world of snooker has been rocked by the unexpected withdrawal of defending champion Ronnie O’Sullivan from the 2025 Masters tournament. The event, one of the sport’s most prestigious Triple Crown tournaments, is set to kick off on January 12 at Alexandra Palace in London. However, O’Sullivan, an eight-time Masters champion, has pulled out due to medical reasons.
A Sudden Exit
O’Sullivan’s withdrawal comes as a significant blow to fans and the tournament’s organizers alike. Scheduled to face John Higgins in a highly anticipated first-round match, O’Sullivan’s absence leaves a void in what promised to be an electrifying showdown. His place in the tournament has been filled by Australia’s Neil Robertson, a two-time Masters champion and current world No. 17.
Top Contenders for the 2025 Masters
With O’Sullivan out, the spotlight shifts to the remaining players, many of whom are eager to claim the prestigious title. Here are the top contenders:
Judd Trump
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World Rank: 1
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Current Form: Judd Trump enters the tournament as the favorite, having won the UK Championship in December 2024. He is in outstanding form and could achieve the rare Triple Crown Grand Slam if he secures the Masters title. Known for his aggressive potting style and tactical intelligence, Trump will be a formidable opponent.
Mark Selby
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World Rank: 2
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Known For: Selby is a four-time World Champion and a previous Masters winner. Nicknamed “The Jester from Leicester,” Selby combines mental resilience with strategic brilliance, making him a strong contender for the title.
Neil Robertson
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World Rank: 17 (replacing Ronnie O’Sullivan)
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Profile: As a two-time Masters champion, Robertson has a proven track record in high-pressure situations. The Australian has stepped in to replace O’Sullivan, and while his current ranking doesn’t reflect his skill level, his pedigree makes him a player to watch.
John Higgins
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World Rank: 5
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Experience: Higgins, a four-time World Champion and two-time Masters winner, continues to showcase incredible form despite being one of the sport’s veterans. His tactical precision and vast experience make him a serious contender.
Mark Allen
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World Rank: 3
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Current Form: Allen has been enjoying one of the best seasons of his career. Known as “The Pistol,” he combines powerful break-building with consistent performances in high-stakes matches.
Shaun Murphy
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World Rank: 6
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Strengths: Known as “The Magician,” Murphy is a former Masters champion and one of the game’s most entertaining players. His attacking style and exceptional cue ball control make him a threat in any match.
Kyren Wilson
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World Rank: 7
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Rising Star: Wilson, nicknamed “The Warrior,” is known for his consistency and tenacity. He’s one of the younger players in the top ranks and has been steadily making his mark in Triple Crown events.
Other Notable Players
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Luca Brecel: The reigning World Champion, Brecel’s unorthodox style and risk-taking make him a wildcard.
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Ding Junhui: A former Masters champion, Ding has shown flashes of brilliance in recent months.
A Historic Tournament
This year’s Masters marks the 50th anniversary of the event and features the world’s top 16 players. With a record-breaking prize fund, including £350,000 for the winner, the stakes are higher than ever. Despite O’Sullivan’s absence, the competition is expected to deliver thrilling moments, with many eyes now turning to other top contenders.
Broadcast and Coverage
Fans can catch all the action live, with comprehensive coverage provided by BBC Sport and Eurosport. The tournament’s organizers are determined to ensure the event retains its reputation for high-quality entertainment, even in the absence of one of its brightest stars.
A Testament to Resilience
While Ronnie O’Sullivan’s withdrawal is a disappointment, the Masters remains a celebration of snooker’s finest talents. The 2025 edition promises to be a showcase of skill, strategy, and resilience, as players vie for one of the most coveted titles in the sport. For fans, the tournament offers an opportunity to witness the next chapter in the evolving story of snooker’s rich history.