Ronnie O'Sullivan was due to face Thailand's Manasawin Phetmalaikul in the first round of the British Open on Monday, but the 48-year-old withdrew at late notice

Ronnie O'Sullivan has pulled out of the British Open hours before he was due to play his first round match. 'The Rocket' was drawn to take on Thai player Manasawin Phetmalaikui, who is currently ranked 116th in snooker's Order of Merit, on Monday evening.

RONNIE O’SULLIVAN has withdrawn from the British Open just hours before he was set to get underway. The Rocket, 48, had been due to face Manasawin Phetmalaikul in round one.

Ronnie O'Sullivan has pulled out of the British Open on the day of his slated first-round clash with Manasawin Phetmalaikul. Fans flocking to Cheltenham will be left disappointed by the Rocket's absence in an otherwise star-studded field.

Ronnie O’Sullivan was a late withdrawal from the British Open while defending champion Mark Williams was stunned in his opening round match in Cheltenham. O’Sullivan was due to face Thailand’s Manasawin Phetmalaikul in his first game and was still in the draw on Monday morning.

THE British Open is underway NOW but Ronnie O’Sullivan has dropped out of the tournament just hours before he was meant to play. The Rocket was due to take on World No 116 Manasawin

Just a day after reports of a break-up, EastEnders actress Laila Rouass and snooker legend Ronnie O'Sullivan were spotted hugging and kissing on a dog walk together

Ronnie O'Sullivan has withdrawn from the British Open, with Lewis Ullah his replacement in the official tournament draw.