Ronnie O’Sullivan makes first TV appearance since pulling out of Welsh Open after snooker star revealed ‘stage fright’
RONNIE O’SULLIVAN has made his first TV appearance since pulling out of the Welsh Open with “stage fright.”
The snooker legend was due out on the tables at this year’s even in Llandudno, fresh off the back of last month’s epic Masters win.
However, O’Sullivan revealed he was pulling out of playing after suffering from “stage fright.”
The Rocket bravely revealed in a statement last week: “It’s hard to explain but for years I’ve suffered from stage fright at times, brought on by anxiety.
“It’s not something I can predict or control, but I try to manage it as best as I can.”
However, O’Sullivan made it to the Welsh Open working as a pundit on Eurosport.
He delighted fans by appearing on TV screens for Monday’s first round.
And O’Sullivan revealed more on the decision behind his absence from the session, as well as his future plans.
He said: “It’s good [to be back], I think it’s a great tournament, a great venue, and it’s really nice to be on the coast.
“It is always a great week and everyone loves just coming to this tournament.
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“The key for me is if I can get away with playing the least amount, that is great for me.
“[My plans are] just trying to stay in the rankings and free some time up, just enjoying myself.
“I don’t want to be on the treadmill every week, you know.”
Last month, O’Sullivan also withdrew from the German Masters in Berlin.
He said at the time: “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.”