Ronnie O’Sullivan has withdrawn from the Championship League in which he was due to open his campaign on Monday.
O’Sullivan, who would have faced Ukrainian 15-year-old Iulian Boiko among others, has been replaced in the draw by John Astley.
A Matchroom Multi Sport spokesperson confirmed: “Ronnie O’Sullivan has informed us that he wishes to withdraw from Championship League Snooker as he does not wish to enter the event bubble.”
The 44-year-old O’Sullivan was beaten by 18-year-old Aaron Hill in the European Masters last month, in his first appearance since claiming his sixth Crucible title.
He is in the field for the English Open, which begins on October 12 and also takes places in Milton Keynes. O'Sullivan is due to play Brian Ochoiski in round one.
It was also revealed on Saturday that WST chairman Barry Hearn is self-isolating having tested posted for Covid-19, a day after Daniel Wells had been taken out of the Championship League for the same reason.
"Barry feels well and is not displaying any symptoms," read a tweet posted the official WST account.
