Neil Robertson missed a crucial World Open qualifying match days before Christmas as he got his days mixed up. The 42-year-old is set to replace Ronnie O’Sullivan at the Masters after the Rocket withdrew from the event due to health reasons. Robertson will get the Masters up and running on Sunday when he takes on John Higgins.

The seven-time world champion has made a last-minute decision to pull out of this year's Masters, a day after whacking his cue on the table in frustration during a defeat to Rob Milkins.

Defending champion Ronnie O'Sullivan has withdrawn from the Masters on medical grounds. O'Sullivan, 49, was aiming to win a record-extending ninth title, and had been set to face John Higgins in a blockbuster opening to the tournament at Alexandra Palace on Sunday.

Ronnie O’Sullivan has withdrawn from the upcoming Masters tournament at Alexandra Palace at short notice “on medical grounds”.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.

Former world champion Dennis Taylor says ‘you’ve got to worry for Ronnie O’Sullivan’ after his shock withdrawal from the Masters just two days before the event begins. The Rocket was set to defend the title he won last year at Alexandra Palace,

Defending champion Ronnie O’Sullivan abandons Masters defence on health grounds - Neil Robertson has replaced O’Sullivan in the draw.