Medical issues have forced Belgian snooker player Luca Brecel to pull out of the prestigious Saudi Arabia Masters tournament in Jeddah.
The 30-year-old former world champion was scheduled to face England's Sanderson Lam in the third round this evening.
His withdrawal from the £2.3million ranking event means Lam, 31, advances automatically to the next stage. The tournament's elite players, including Ronnie O'Sullivan and Judd Trump, are set to join the competition on Tuesday in the fifth round.
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Officials are unlikely to impose sanctions or financial penalties on Brecel, provided he supplies appropriate documentation supporting his medical circumstances.
Luca Brecel has withdrawn from the Saudi Arabia Masters
|PA
The Belgian's most recent competitive appearance came at the Crucible Theatre, where he suffered a 13-8 defeat to world number one Judd Trump in the World Championship quarter-finals.
Since that loss in Sheffield, Brecel has been notably absent from professional snooker.
He chose not to participate in the Championship League that opened the new season. More significantly, his non-appearance at a qualifying match against Pakistan's Haris Tahir in Leicester on June 22 has resulted in his exclusion from the upcoming Wuhan Open, scheduled to begin in two weeks.
His next potential tournament appearance could be at the English Open in Brentwood, Essex, starting on 11 September.
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Luca Brecel has had an extended time away from playing snooker
|PA
The 39th-ranked player faces a precarious situation as his prolonged absence threatens to damage his professional standing. Extended periods away from competition could see his world ranking plummet further, potentially jeopardising his career trajectory.
Despite these risks, the Belgian appears unconcerned about the consequences of his inactivity. Sources suggest he might skip the English Open entirely, choosing instead to extend his stay in Belgium for several additional weeks.
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His relaxed attitude towards competitive commitments marks a stark contrast to the dedication typically required to maintain elite status in professional snooker. The Maasmechelen native's priorities appear to have shifted away from the sport that brought him world championship glory.
The former champion has been enjoying an extended break in his native Maasmechelen region alongside his new partner. Their summer activities have included cycling excursions, dining experiences, and socialising over drinks.
Luca Brecel has spent the summer with his partner and away from snooker
|PA
His social media presence reveals a lifestyle focused on leisure pursuits rather than professional snooker commitments. The couple have been photographing their various outings, documenting a summer spent far from snooker tables and practice facilities.
This romantic relationship appears to have become Brecel's primary focus during the traditional preparation period for the new season. His Instagram posts showcase someone embracing personal time away from the demanding schedule of professional sport.