Complaints about Ronnie O’Sullivan addressed by World Grand Prix chief in response to fans
The World Grand Prix in Hong Kong faced criticism after Ronnie O’Sullivan, a seven-time world champion, withdrew for medical reasons before his anticipated match against China’s Si Jiahui. His withdrawal led to eight complaints from fans, as it marked O’Sullivan’s first absence from a snooker event since participating in a Championship League in January, where he exited before his final match against Ali Carter. Concerns have been raised about O’Sullivan’s future in snooker, with his next scheduled appearance being at the Crucible in April.
The event organisers in Hong Kong were already dealing with logistical challenges when fans attending Kyren Wilson’s match against Matt Selt had to leave early due to a midnight curfew, resulting in the match continuing without spectators in the 10,000-seat Kai Tak Arena. This situation prompted four additional complaints, bringing the total to 12 in the early days of the tournament. Gilly Wong Fung-han, Chief Executive of Hong Kong’s Consumer Council, an independent body from the organisers, mentioned that compensation discussions were underway, although ticket refunds were not considered.
A spokesperson for the World Snooker Tour acknowledged the issue, stating that communication with Kai Tak Sports Park and relevant authorities has taken place. They assured that for the remainder of the tournament, fans would be allowed to stay until the end of evening sessions. Apologies were extended for the inconvenience, and ticket holders from the affected match were offered exchanges for equivalent seats on March 5th or 6th.
Meanwhile, in the competition, Shaun Murphy and Neil Robertson advanced to the semi-finals with 5-3 victories over John Higgins and Xiao Guodong, respectively. Judd Trump also secured a place in the semi-finals with a decisive win against Hossein Vafaei, and he is set to face either Stuart Bingham or Mark Selby. The tournament boasts a total prize fund of £800,000, with the victor receiving £180,000. The final is scheduled for Sunday afternoon.
