Snooker great Ronnie O'Sullivan to miss World Grand Prix 2025

Snooker star 'Rocket' Ronnie O'Sullivan, who was granted Hong Kong residency under a talent scheme, will be absent from the World Grand Prix 2025 due to health issues.

The six-day tournament will make its grand debut in Hong Kong at the Kai Tak Sports Park's Kai Tak Arena starting Tuesday (Mar 4), which boasts a capacity of 5,000 spectators.

The organizers announced Saturday (Mar 1) that they were notified by O'Sullivan of his absence due to health issues, and his spot will be taken by Iranian player Hossein Vafaei, currently ranked 33rd.

O'Sullivan expressed deep regret for being unable to participate in the competition, adding that he had always longed to make his comeback in Hong Kong and had put in his utmost effort to achieve this goal. 

However, things ultimately did not go as planned, he said. He also thanked the organizers and Hong Kong fans for their support.