Ronnie O'Sullivan pulls out of Welsh Open due to 'stage fright' and 'anxiety' - 'Not something I can predict'
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ByOli Gent
Published 10/02/2024 at 12:26 GMT
Ronnie O’Sullivan has announced that he is pulling out of this year’s Welsh Open with “stage fright” that he has had “for years”. The world No. 1 has revealed that he will not play at the tournament, making Llandudno the second successive event he has withdrawn from after the German Masters, where he cited his "health and wellbeing". The Rocket is a four-time Welsh Open champion.
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Ronnie O’Sullivan has announced on Saturday that he is pulling out of this year’s Welsh Open due to “stage fright” and "anxiety".
O’Sullivan, a four-time Welsh Open champion, last won the tournament back in 2016, beating Neil Robertson 9-5 in the final.
He last made the final showdown in 2021, losing to Jordan Brown 9-8, with the Northern Irishman claiming a maiden ranking title.
Now, O’Sullivan has decided not to take part in Llandudno, but will instead partake in Eurosport’s live coverage of the event.
O’Sullivan took to social media to announce his decision which read: “Morning guys, I wanted to let you know that I’ve decided I’m not able to play in Llandudno next week.
"It’s hard to explain but for years I’ve suffered from stage fright at times, brought on by anxiety. It’s not something I can predict or control but I try to manage it as best as I can.
“I’m sorry to everyone who’s bought tickets but I just can’t get my cue out when I feel like this and I think this is what’s best for me right now.
“I still want to be around the tournament so I’ll be doing some work with Eurosport and I hope to see you all there.”
The world No. 1 had been due to face Liam Graham on Monday, but has now withdrawn from his second successive tournament, having dropped out of the German Masters wanting to prioritise his “health and wellbeing”.
The Rocket has started 2024 in scintillating form, winning the UK Championship, The Masters and the World Grand Prix since the start of December.
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