Ronnie O’Sullivan has withdrawn from the World Grand Prix for medical reasons – and won’t return until the World Championship next month.
The Rocket confirmed he will not be defending his title in Hong Kong just three days before the tournament begins.
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He picked up his third title in the event by beating Judd Trump in last year’s final.
Hossein Vafaei has replaced O’Sullivan in the draw for the event, which gets underway on Tuesday.
The Iranian will face Si Jiahui in the opening round the following day.
O’Sullivan announced his withdrawal in a statement, explaining: “I am very disappointed not to be competing.
“I had been eager to make my comeback in Hong Kong and have put in my utmost effort.
“But unfortunately must consider my health.
“I wish to sincerely thank the organisers and all the Hong Kong fans for their support.”
The seven-time world champion will also now face seven weeks out of action due to his absence at the World Grand Prix.
O’Sullivan has failed to qualify for the upcoming Players Championship and Tour Championships due to inactivity.
Having pulled out of nine events so far this season, the 49-year-old has slipped to 24th in the world rankings.
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The Players Championship is only open to the world’s best 16 players whilst the top eight qualify for the Tour Championship.
As a result, O’Sullivan will now be away from the table until the World Championship gets underway at the Crucible on April 19.
His opening match at the tournament will be just his sixth of 2025, with the previous five all coming behind-closed-doors in the Championship League.
O’Sullivan will once again be looking to win a record-breaking eighth crown in Sheffield.
He remains tied with Stephen Hendry on seven for the most world titles of the modern era.
