Snooker fans in Germany have been handed a major boost with the news that Ronnie O'Sullivan has been entered into the draw for January's German Masters.
A Rare Appearance on the Cards
The seven-time world champion has been conspicuously absent from the main stages of the popular Berlin tournament for nearly a decade. His last appearance at the Tempodrom was in 2017, where he suffered a last 32 defeat to Mark King. While he attempted to qualify in 2022, he lost 5-0 to Hossein Vafaei in Cannock. Since that 2017 trip, the 50-year-old legend has either not entered or withdrawn from the event, making his potential return in January 2026 a significant moment.
As a top 16 seed, O'Sullivan's qualifying matches are held over to the main venue. He is due to face either Haris Tahir, Zhao Hanyang or Long Zehuang in his opening match in Berlin. However, supporters are advised to temper immediate excitement, as 'The Rocket' has withdrawn after entering the draw in previous seasons.
Strong Field and Tournament History
The draw is packed with snooker's elite. Only Ding Junhui is missing from the world's top 16, with Chris Wakelin taking the seeded spot as world number 17. The field includes the likes of Mark Selby, Judd Trump, Neil Robertson, and defending champion Kyren Wilson.
Wilson, who beat Barry Hawkins 10-9 in a thrilling final last season, will begin his title defence against Dylan Emery, Florian Nuessle or Rob Milkins. Judd Trump, a three-time winner of the event in the last six years, faces Cheung Ka Wai, Ng On Yee or David Lilley.
Despite his recent absence, O'Sullivan has a strong history in the tournament. He won the forerunner German Open in 1996 and triumphed at the German Masters in 2012.
Key Dates and Full Draw
The qualifying rounds for the German Masters will be held in Sheffield from January 5-8, 2026. The main stages, where the top 16 including O'Sullivan will join the action, take place at the iconic Tempodrom in Berlin from January 26 to February 1.
With almost all of snooker's biggest names confirmed, the stage is set for a spectacular start to the new year in Berlin, with the potential return of the sport's biggest draw adding an extra layer of anticipation.
