Ronnie O’Sullivan has pulled out of another snooker tournament citing his “health and welling”.

The Rocket, who has already won the Masters, UK Championship and World Grand Prix this season, has pulled out of the German Masters in Berlin, which starts on Monday, January 29. Earlier this week, O’Sullivan limped through his World Open qualifier against Alfie Burden in Barnsley to book his place in the final stages of that tournament.

The seven-time world champion, who has been given special permission by World Snooker to wear trainers due to a foot injury, kicked them off midway through the fourth frame while Burden was on a break of 61. He will now take a short break from the game, potentially returning to action at the Welsh Open, which begins on February 12.

In a statement on X and his Instagram, O’Sullivan, 48, wrote: “I just want to let my fans in Germany know that sadly I’ve decided to withdraw from the German Masters next week.

“I love the event and fans in Germany but I have to make my health and wellbeing the priority. It’s been a tiring and challenging season for me so far, despite how it may seem with the tournament wins so hope you understand. I’m sorry I won’t be there and I hope to see you all soon.”

O’Sullivan has been replaced in the draw by Barry Pinches, who will play Julien Leclercq in a first round match on Monday afternoon. It’s not the first tournament O’Sullivan has withdrawn from this season. He also missed the Scottish Open in December, also citing medical reasons.

The Rocket isn’t the only big name to miss the tournament. Hossein Vafaei has pulled out due to visa issues. He was due to face Elliot Slessor in the second round on Monday. Slessor will now receive a bye to the last 32.