Ronnie O’Sullivan breaks silence after latest withdrawal with health explanation
Ronnie O’Sullivan has issued a statement for fans disappointed to see him withdraw from a planned return appearance at the Welsh Open.
O’Sullivan had been due to begin his campaign in Llandudno against Jamie Clarke. However, following the last-minute decision, Clarke was awarded a bye.
“I realise plenty of people who bought tickets to some recent snooker events will have been frustrated when I withdrew, so I just wanted to say sorry to those of you who’ve been disappointed with me having to pull out of those tournaments,” the multiple world champion wrote on social media. “I’ve been trying to prioritise my health and well-being, which sometimes means making last-minute decisions not to play.
“It’s never an easy decision and I hate letting people down. I’m doing what I can to get back to my best, and I’m grateful for all your support and understanding.”
A number of fans shared messages of support following O’Sullivan’s statement. “You are the champ, and whenever you will come back, you will be stronger than ever,” wrote one.
“You focus on getting well and feeling well,” another replied.”That’s all that matters – that’s life. Snooker is a small part of it and I’m sure people will have seen plenty of talent at those events. Get well and lift the world title again.”
A third wrote: “Don’t be sorry, you have to look after yourself. People may be gutted they won’t get to see you play but I bet 99% would place your wellbeing above that disappointment. Look forward to seeing you in future tournaments when you’re feeling better Ronnie.”
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Clarke’s round of 64 walkover saw the Welsh hopeful go through to face Matthew Selt. Thirtieth seed Selt won 4-3, though, and will take on Jack Lisowski in the round of 16.
“Yeah I think there was [disappointment], when I got the phone call this morning,” Clarke told the BBC (via the Daily Express) when asked about O’Sullivan’s withdrawal. “Maybe 20% was disappointed because he’s coming towards the end of his career.
“You don’t get many chances to play Ronnie. He picks and chooses his events, and rightly so. I was probably more happy than not happy, but it would have been nice to play him.”
None of the top three seeds are still in the tournament, with top seed Judd Trump pulling out before O’Sullivan. Reigning world champion and second seed Kyren Wilson lost to Joe O’Connor in the second round, and O’Connor followed up that victory by downing Matthew Stevens to reach the quarter-finals
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