Ronnie O'Sullivan withdraws from hometown tournament despite massive prize money on offer

Ronnie O'Sullivan signs young fan's shirt

Callum Vurley

By Callum Vurley


Published: 07/09/2025

- 11:03

Ronnie O'Sullivan has pulled out of another tournament - this time only minutes away from his home

The seven-time world champion will not compete at the English Open in Brentwood, despite the venue being merely half an hour's drive from his Chigwell home.

The tournament, which offers a substantial £550,000 in total prize money, will proceed without the 2017 winner after World Snooker Tour confirmed his absence from the official draw.


No explanation has been given for his decision to bypass the Essex event.

The proximity to his hometown had raised expectations amongst supporters that he might participate in the competition scheduled from 11 to 21 September.

Ronnie O'Sullivan has withdrawn from the English Open

Ronnie O'Sullivan has withdrawn from the English Open

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PA

This marks another tournament absence for O'Sullivan, who withdrew from the Wuhan Open due to medical reasons.

The third ranking event of the season was ultimately claimed by Xiao Guodong.

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His most recent competitive appearance came at the Saudi Arabia Masters, where he suffered a narrow 10-9 defeat to Neil Robertson in the final. Robertson will return to defend his English Open title at the Brentwood venue.

The pattern of withdrawals has continued throughout 2025, with O'Sullivan opting out of multiple events.

His medical withdrawal from the Wuhan Open followed shortly after his runner-up finish in Saudi Arabia last month.

Ronnie O'Sullivan

Ronnie O'Sullivan's future in snooker remains up in the air after pulling out of another tournament

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Getty

Supporters have expressed mounting concern about potential retirement as the snooker legend continues to skip major tournaments.

His repeated absences throughout the current campaign have fuelled speculation about his future in the sport.

The frequency of withdrawals has become particularly noticeable this year, with O'Sullivan missing several high-profile competitions.

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Each tournament absence intensifies questions about whether the multiple world champion might be considering stepping away from professional snooker.

His decision to miss a home tournament with significant prize money has only amplified these retirement fears amongst fans.

The lack of explanation for bypassing the English Open has added to the uncertainty surrounding his competitive future.

Ronnie O'Sullivan

Ronnie O'Sullivan has not yet given a reason for his withdrawal

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PA

The English Open will feature defending champion Robertson, who secured his victory against O'Sullivan in Saudi Arabia.

The tournament runs from 11 to 21 September with coverage on TNT Sports and discovery+.

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