RONNIE O’Sullivan faces a tough challenge as he kicks off his title defense in The Masters.

The Rocket, who claimed his eighth title by defeating Ali Carter in last year’s final, is set to compete against his longstanding rival John Higgins.

Ronnie O'Sullivan faces a challenging start in The Masters at Alexandra Palace

2

Ronnie O’Sullivan encounters a tough start in The Masters at Alexandra PalaceCredit: Getty
O'Sullivan against John Higgins in their first round match at Alexandra Palace

2

O’Sullivan takes on John Higgins in their first round matchup at Alexandra PalaceCredit: Getty

So far in the 2024-2025 season, Ronnie has not yet secured any titles following a string of disappointing performances.

Nonetheless, he will arrive at Alexandra Palace as the reigning champion, set to battle his Class of ’92 peer.

His close friend and mentor Jimmy White shared his thoughts about the upcoming match on Eurosport: “O’Sullivan remains optimistic about his game.

“He faces a tough match against John Higgins, who has exhibited impressive consistency.”

O’Sullivan and Higgins have a long history in The Masters, having gone head-to-head multiple times.

The pair last met in the final in 2006, where the Scot narrowly won over O’Sullivan 10-9 in an exhilarating contest.

In other matches, Barry Hawkins and Judd Trump, likely weary of their recent UK Championship final showdown, will face each other again.

World champion Kyren Wilson is set to meet the formidable Zhang Anda in the first round.

Mark Selby, a three-time winner of the Masters, faces a tough challenge against Ali Carter, who has been a runner-up twice.

Ronnie O’Sullivan expresses shock after his exit from the UK Snooker Championship

2011 Masters champion Ding Junhui will compete against Mark Williams, who last held the title in 2003 against Stephen Hendry.

Mark Allen will go up against Si Jiahui, which promises to be another exciting matchup.

THE COMPLETE MASTERS DRAW

Last year, Ronnie O’Sullivan emerged as the champion in The Masters. Will he claim his ninth title this year?

  • Ronnie O’Sullivan vs John Higgins
  • Mark Selby vs Ali Carter
  • Luca Brecel vs Chris Wakelin
  • Mark Allen vs Si Jiahui
  • Kyren Wilson vs Zhang Anda
  • Mark Williams vs Ding Junhui
  • Shaun Murphy vs Gary Wilson
  • Judd Trump vs Barry Hawkins

The Masters is scheduled to begin on January 12.

This year, the total prize fund amounts to £725,000, with the champion poised to receive a winner’s prize of £250,000.