• Snooker

O'Sullivan returns to snooker for UK Championship

ESPN staff
August 7, 2012
Ronnie O'Sullivan is the reigning world champion © PA Photos
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Ronnie O'Sullivan has confirmed his return to the sport of snooker, following an undefined break from the game.

O'Sullivan said after his fourth World Championship triumph earlier this year that he planned to take a spell away from the table. He then made good on that promise by refusing to sign the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association agreement ahead of the June entry deadline.

The Rocket said at the time: "I have not signed the player's contract as I feel the contract is too onerous and I'm in a stage of my career where I don't wish to make this commitment. I still want to play snooker and visit those places around the world such as China where snooker is enthusiastically received and adored."

O'Sullivan this week signed the World Snooker League (WSL) Players Contract, entering the International Championship in China, as well as the UK Championship in York.

"I have taken the six-month sabbatical I said I would and I am now looking forward to competing over the rest of this season," O'Sullivan said. "I am happy to be back in snooker and seeing all my fans soon."

Barry Hearn, chairman of WSL, said: "I met with Ronnie last night and, following our discussion, he has signed the WSL Players Contract. We are obviously very pleased that Ronnie has decided to come back to snooker, the sport he loves. This is great news for his many fans around the world. We welcome him back with open arms."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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