Snooker Masters Draw Revealed: Ronnie O'Sullivan Poised for Thrilling Showdown and Rematch of UK Championship Final -

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

The Rocket, who defeated Ali Carter to claim his eighth title in last year’s final, is set to battle his longtime rival John Higgins.

So far, Ronnie has not claimed any titles in the 2024-2025 season following a frustrating series of matches.

Nevertheless, he will enter Alexandra Palace as the reigning champion, up against his Class of ’92 peer.

His close friend and mentor Jimmy White expressed on Eurosport after the draw, “O’Sullivan is feeling confident about his game.

“He faces a tough match against John Higgins, known for his remarkable consistency.”

O’Sullivan and Higgins have a well-established rivalry in The Masters, having met in previous tournaments on numerous occasions.

The two squared off in the final in 2006, where Higgins narrowly triumphed 10-9 in a thrilling contest.

In other matchups, Barry Hawkins and Judd Trump, who recently faced each other in the UK Championship final, will meet again.

World champion Kyren Wilson will take on the formidable Zhang Anda in the first round.

Mark Selby, a three-time Masters champion, also faces a tough rival in Ali Carter, who has been runner-up twice.

Ronnie O’Sullivan reacts in disbelief after being knocked out of the UK Snooker Championship

2011 Masters winner Ding Junhui is scheduled to compete against Mark Williams, who last emerged victorious in 2003 against Stephen Hendry.

Mark Allen will go head-to-head with Si Jiahui, which promises to be another exciting match.

Last year, Ronnie O’Sullivan was crowned champion of The Masters. Can he secure his ninth title this year?

The Masters is set to begin on January 12.

This year, the total prize fund is £725,000, with the champion expected to take home £250,000.

Snooker Masters Draw Revealed: Ronnie O’Sullivan Poised for Thrilling Showdown and Rematch of UK Championship Final