ronnie o’sullivan has revealed that he probably won’t compete in the masters this year, citing his recent move to dubai, a demanding travel schedule, and the toll of constant jet lag from flying between different regions. speaking exclusively on talkSPORT drive, the snooker legend explained that his decision comes as part of a scaled-back schedule, reflecting a shift in priorities and lifestyle balance.
o’sullivan shared that much of his work is now centered in china and the middle east, making it increasingly difficult to travel frequently back to the uk for tournaments. he admitted that the long flights and time zone differences have been exhausting, affecting both his preparation and overall wellbeing. the move to dubai, he added, made sense logistically and professionally, allowing him to stay closer to where much of his business and promotional commitments now take place.
fans have expressed mixed emotions about the news — while many are disappointed that they may not see “the rocket” competing at one of snooker’s most prestigious events, others have shown full support for his decision to prioritize health and sustainability. o’sullivan has long been open about the mental and physical challenges of maintaining peak performance in such a demanding sport, often emphasizing the importance of balance and self-care.
although his potential absence from the 2026 masters marks a significant moment, it does not signal retirement. o’sullivan remains active and passionate about snooker but appears to be focusing on select tournaments that align with his evolving lifestyle. his honesty about the challenges of travel and fatigue offers insight into the realities faced by top-level athletes who balance global commitments with personal wellbeing. fans around the world continue to stand behind him, respecting his choices and celebrating his incredible legacy.
