Mark Williams has withdrawn from the International Snooker Championship after being struck down by illness, forcing the three-time world champion to miss the major tournament in China.
The Welshman confirmed that a respiratory infection has sidelined him just as he was preparing to travel to Nanjing for the event.
His absence comes only a week after he opted out of the Northern Ireland Open in Belfast to rest following his Xi’an Grand Prix triumph in China earlier this month.
Williams, 50, took to social media to announce the news, writing: “Man down.
“No International Championship for me. Respiratory infection.
“Another week doing nothing. Champion of Champions next stop, fingers crossed.”
His withdrawal means Scotland’s Anthony McGill will receive a bye into the third round.
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Williams is now focusing on recovering in time to defend his title at next month’s Champion of Champions tournament in Leicester.
The setback interrupts what had been a strong run of form for the veteran, who secured his first ranking title in nearly two years with victory in Xi’an.
The win had prompted hopes of a sustained push through the season, but illness has forced an unexpected pause.
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Williams is not the only leading name absent from this week’s competition.
Ali Carter has also withdrawn, continuing his break from the circuit after missing the Northern Ireland Open for personal reasons.
Despite the withdrawals, the International Championship will still feature several of snooker’s top players.
Belfast finalist Judd Trump is set to open his campaign on Sunday against fellow Englishman Dylan Emery, while Northern Ireland Open champion Jack Lisowski faces Louis Heathcote a day later.
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Lisowski, who captured his maiden ranking title in Belfast, believes the victory has given him renewed confidence heading into the rest of the season.
“I think this gives me a bit of a boost,” he said.
“Hopefully this is the start of my career. I’ve been a pro for 14 or 15 years. I’ve served my apprenticeship, and now I’m here, I guess.”
As Williams focuses on recovery, fans will hope the illness proves short-lived and that the popular Welshman can return to full strength in time to defend his Leicester crown next month.