Ronnie O’Sullivan has opened up about his controversial withdrawal from the 2025 Masters tournament, describing it as a “nightmare” experience. The snooker legend, widely regarded as the sport’s greatest player, admitted he struggled with mental and emotional issues leading up to the event and ultimately “lost the plot.”
O’Sullivan’s decision to pull out of the prestigious competition shocked fans and players alike. The 47-year-old, who has won the Masters six times, cited personal reasons for his absence, but in a candid interview, he went into greater detail about the emotional turmoil he had been facing. He admitted that his withdrawal stemmed from a combination of pressures, including the expectations placed on him as one of snooker’s biggest stars and his own internal struggles.
“I’ve been feeling a bit overwhelmed lately,” O’Sullivan confessed. “The pressure to perform, the constant traveling, and the demands of the sport have taken their toll. It’s not easy being in the spotlight all the time. I felt like I lost the plot, and I couldn’t get myself back on track.”
The World Snooker Championship, his consistent performances, and his celebrated achievements over the years have all contributed to O’Sullivan’s status as snooker’s GOAT. However, even with all his success, the mental strain has been a constant challenge. O’Sullivan has been open in the past about his struggles with mental health, and this withdrawal from the Masters serves as a reminder that even the greatest athletes face personal battles behind the scenes.
The withdrawal is particularly notable as O’Sullivan has rarely missed major events due to injury or mental health concerns. His candid remarks highlight the immense pressure and emotional toll that professional athletes face, even in a sport like snooker, which is often seen as less physically demanding compared to others.
Despite his absence from the Masters, O’Sullivan has reassured fans that he is focused on getting back to his best. “I’m taking some time to reset, work on myself, and make sure I’m in the right place mentally and physically,” he explained. “I love the game, and I know I’ll be back, but I need to take care of myself first.”
O’Sullivan’s openness about his struggles is likely to resonate with many of his fans, reinforcing the importance of mental well-being in sports. While his absence at the Masters is unfortunate, it serves as a reminder of the challenges athletes face, regardless of their greatness on the table.
