Is Ronnie O'Sullivan playing at the World Snooker Championship? Everything we know

It's the question that's been on the mind of every snooker fan. The build-up to the sport's marquee event, the 2025 , has been dominated by fears that seven-time winner will not be at the Crucible.

The first-round matches in Sheffield get underway today. O'Sullivan, however, is not due to start his campaign until Tuesday . Even after that match-up was confirmed, though, there was no immediate confirmation from 'The Rocket' that he would be fulfilling his place in the main draw.

Express Sport looks at everything we know about O'Sullivan's prospects of playing...

When did O'Sullivan last play professional snooker?

Concern over O'Sullivan's participation, especially from those who have already paid for tickets, is understandable. He's not played since to Robert Milkins in January, leaving the tournament prematurely and forfeiting his final group match.

He's since withdrawn from the , World Grand Prix, Scottish Open, German Masters and Welsh Open due to medical reasons. The non-appearance in Llandudno was particularly controversial, after a host of supporters had travelled hours to watch the star.

What has O'Sullivan said about the World Championship?

After weeks of silence, earlier this month, O'Sullivan claimed that he would make a decision on the day of the draw on April 17. Asked if he intended to play, he replied: "I don't know yet.

"I haven't made my mind up, I'll probably make a decision on maybe the 17 or 18 of April. I don't know when I'm due to play my first match, so I'm going to try and leave myself as much time as possible."

Is O'Sullivan going to play at the Crucible?

In short, yes. Following reports that he would indeed be going head-to-head with Carter, morning that he would be playing and furthermore, fancied his chances.

"I'm proud to continue my record of having never missed a World Championship," he said. "I have many fond memories at the Crucible and look forward to making more in 2025. I've enjoyed some good prep with my new cue over the last week so feel good ahead of Tuesday."