Ronnie O'Sullivan withdrew from the Masters and his would-be opponent John Higgins was quick to send a message of support to the seven-time world champion

John Higgins sent a message to an absent Ronnie O'Sullivan. (Image: BBC / Getty.) John Higgins told Ronnie O’Sullivan that “health is more important” in a heartwarming message after his long-time rival pulled out of the Masters.

Snooker star Ronnie O'Sullivan has withdrawn from the Masters at Alexandra Palace on medical grounds, bringing his quest for a record-extending ninth title to an end before it even started.

Ronnie O’Sullivan has withdrawn from the upcoming Masters tournament at Alexandra Palace at short notice “on medical grounds”. O’Sullivan was the defending Masters champion after beating Ali Carter in the final last year and was due to face long-time rival John Higgins in the opening match of the tournament on Sunday afternoon but has pulled out just 48 hours beforehand.

Judd Trump believes Ronnie O'Sullivan 'won't be seen many more times' in the wake of his shock Masters withdrawal. The Rocket pulled out of the competition on Friday on 'medical grounds', days after he'd quit the Champions League.

REIGNING CHAMPION RONNIE O’Sullivan has withdrawn from the upcoming Masters on medical grounds. The world No 3, who has won the competition eight times, was due to face John Higgins in the opening match on Sunday afternoon.

Ronnie O’Sullivan has withdrawn from the Masters and will not defend his title at Alexandra Palace this month. World Snooker Tour confirmed on Friday morning that the Rocket has withdrawn ‘on medical grounds’ and will be replaced in the draw by Neil Robertson.