While many celebrate Christmas with family at home, Ronnie O’Sullivan is gearing up for a snooker showdown in Macau. The seven-time world champion will headline the Macau Masters, which kicks off on December 25 at the Wynn Palace Grand Theatre. Featuring a star-studded lineup, the tournament runs through December 28 and promises intense matchups.
O’Sullivan will compete alongside world champion Kyren Wilson, world No. 1 Judd Trump, Ding Junhui, Marco Fu, Stuart Bingham, Jack Lisowski, and rising star Si Jiahui. The Rocket faces Jack Lisowski in the opening night session, followed by games against Marco Fu on Boxing Day and Si Jiahui the next day.
Tournament Schedule Highlights
| Date | Match |
|---|---|
| December 25 | Judd Trump vs. Ding Junhui |
| December 25 | Ronnie O’Sullivan vs. Jack Lisowski |
| December 26 | Ronnie O’Sullivan vs. Marco Fu |
| December 27 | Ronnie O’Sullivan vs. Si Jiahui |
| December 28 | Ronnie O’Sullivan vs. Kyren Wilson |
| December 28 | Ronnie O’Sullivan vs. Stuart Bingham |
This event marks O’Sullivan’s first time competing in Hong Kong since being granted residency there. His recent comments highlight his excitement: “Merry Christmas everyone! Really proud to be out here in Macau… The venue looks fantastic, and it’s going to be an amazing event.”
Hong Kong’s Growing Snooker Presence
The Macau Masters builds on Hong Kong’s increasing influence in snooker. The region will host its first ranking event in 35 years in March 2025 at the Kai Tak Sports Park. O’Sullivan previously triumphed at the 2022 Hong Kong Masters in front of 9,000 fans, defeating Marco Fu 6-4 in the final.
O’Sullivan remains critical of the British snooker scene, lamenting the conditions of smaller venues. “It’s tough playing in leisure centers,” he said recently. “10 to 15 years ago, I’d have been fine with it, but now I focus on quality events.”
As he balances his career with personal priorities, O’Sullivan plans to play around 10 tournaments annually, carefully selecting the most prestigious events. The Macau Masters is shaping up to be another thrilling chapter in the Rocket’s storied career.
