Snooker legend Jimmy White has teased that Ronnie O’Sullivan could be closing in on a return to the sport after an absence of over a month.

The Rocket has pulled out of the Masters, German Masters and most recently the Welsh Open, with his withdrawal from the latter coming on the morning of his opening match and prompted criticism.

The seven-time world champion has cited protecting his mental health as a reason for pulling out of events in 2025, having snapped his cue at the Championship League on his last public appearance at the baize.

But White, O’Sullivan’s long-time friend and rival, has heard positive “whispers” about the 49-year-old that could precede a comeback to snooker.

"He needs some match practice before the World Championship," White told Eurosport at the Welsh Open. "He needs to get amongst it.

"I have heard he has a good cue he is happy with, [but] I am only hearing whispers."

He will need match practice in order to be in contention for the World Championship, beginning in April, but White has not ruled out the veteran moving ahead of Stephen Hendry and becoming the most decorated player in Crucible history.

"He needs to be playing some tournaments to get some match practice under his belt," White added. “Saying that, do you remember when he did not play for a year, and then he came and won the World Championship? So as long as he is playing he has every chance."

Responding after several fans at the Welsh Open complained of his late withdrawal in Llandudno, O'Sullivan issued a statement apologising and explaining his decision.

He wrote: “I realise plenty of people who bought tickets to some recent snooker events will have been frustrated when I withdrew, so I just wanted to say sorry to those of you who’ve been disappointed with me having to pull out of those tournaments.

“I’ve been trying to prioritise my health and well-being, which sometimes means making last-minute decisions not to play. It’s never an easy decision and I hate letting people down. I’m doing what I can to get back to my best, and I’m grateful for all your support and understanding.”

O’Sullivan is next scheduled to play at the World Open in Yushan, China, having on numerous occasions declared his love for playing snooker in Asia.

The Rocket has made no secret of his preference to play in China or Saudi Arabia rather than events on British soil, and many are waiting with bated breath for news of his availability.

He is set to face Stuart Carrington in the first round on February 23.