Ronnie O’Sullivan is set to make a comeback at the upcoming German Masters in January after being absent from the tournament for nine years. Known as “The Rocket,” O’Sullivan is eager to compete for the £550,000 prize this time around, having last participated in the main stages in 2017.
Having not taken part in the event since his visit to Berlin nine years ago, O’Sullivan attempted to qualify in 2022 but was defeated 5-0 by Hossein Vafaei in Cannock, preventing him from reaching Germany. The 50-year-old will kick off his campaign against Haris Tahir, Zhao Hanyang, or Long Zehuang. Notably, he is among the top 16 seeds, with Ding Junhui being the only absentee from the draw, which has been officially released on the German Masters’ website.
The prestigious tournament is scheduled to commence on January 26 at the Tempodrom in Berlin, with Kyren Wilson aiming to defend his title after a thrilling 10-9 victory over Barry Hawkins in the previous edition. Other top contenders include Judd Trump, who has clinched victory in three out of the last six editions. The draw also features prominent players such as Mark Selby, Zhao Xintong, Mark Williams, Neil Robertson, Mark Allen, and Shaun Murphy.
O’Sullivan, a seven-time world champion, has a tendency to withdraw from events abruptly, raising anticipation and uncertainty regarding his participation in 2026. In recent times, he withdrew from the British Open in September citing medical reasons and also opted out of the Wuhan Open the month before. Previously, at the beginning of 2025, O’Sullivan decided to withdraw from the German Masters, the Masters, and matches in the Championship League to prioritize his mental well-being.
Ranked eighth globally, O’Sullivan has yet to secure a ranking event victory in the ongoing 2025/26 season. Following his marriage to former EastEnders actress Laila Rouass in June, he relocated from Essex to Dubai in November due to work commitments in the Middle East and China, citing struggles with jet lag.
Moreover, Sky has announced a reduction in the price of its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle for the 2025/26 season, offering significant savings and over 1,400 live matches across various leagues, including the Premier League and EFL. Sky will broadcast a minimum of 215 live Premier League matches in the upcoming season, showcasing an increase of up to 100 additional games.
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