Masters 2025: “O’Sullivan’s Absence Boosts My Chances,” says Shaun Murphy

The first evening session of the 2025 Masters at Alexandra Palace saw 2015 champion Shaun Murphy take on the ‘Tyneside Terror,’ Gary Wilson. 

It was Wilson’s second appearance at the Masters but his first in front of a crowd, as his debut in the tournament occurred during the COVID pandemic behind closed doors in Milton Keynes.

Murphy, who reached the semi-finals of last year’s event before losing to eventual champion Ronnie O’Sullivan, started the match in blistering form. 

The 42-year-old raced to a commanding 4-0 lead at the mid-session interval, showcasing his class with three breaks of over 50.

Despite the early deficit, Wilson mounted an admirable fightback, claiming three consecutive frames. His effort included a brilliant 101 break, marking his presence on the big stage. However, Murphy demonstrated his trademark composure to close out the match, responding with a stunning 103 break and securing a 6-3 victory to book his spot in the quarterfinals.

Facing a Last-Minute Replacement in Neil Robertson

Murphy will now face Neil Robertson, a two-time Masters champion, who entered the tournament as a last-minute replacement for O’Sullivan. The seven-time world champion shocked fans by withdrawing due to health concerns less than 36 hours before the event.

Reflecting on the upcoming clash with Robertson, Murphy acknowledged the challenge ahead.

“I mean, what a replacement, the greatest of all time gets replaced by a two-time winner. It's very, very difficult, but it's not called the Masters for nothing,” he told SportsBoom.com. 

“It is just the best and it's an event that has gone from strength to strength with celebrating its 50th year, this year. It's an event with a magnificent history, and I'm delighted to, when I do hang my cue up, say I’ve been a part of it.”

Supporting O’Sullivan During His Absence

As a senior figure on the WPBSA World Governing Body board, Murphy also emphasised the importance of supporting O’Sullivan during his absence.

“The first port of call, particularly as chairman of the Players Association, is to make sure he's okay. We've got a duty of care to our members to make sure that if there is a problem, then we reach out to them and offer them support.”

A Boosted Chance to Win the Title

Murphy candidly admitted that O’Sullivan’s withdrawal increases the chances for the rest of the field.

“After that, you look at your draw and go, well, my chances of winning the Masters have just increased. And I think anyone who says no is telling lies.”

He also revealed that Neil Tomkins, the WPBSA’s Player Relations Manager, had reached out to O’Sullivan to check on his well-being.

“Neil Tomkins, who works for the board, I believe, has reached out to him. And as I say, it's our duty of care as a member's association to look after each other.”

O’Sullivan’s Legacy and Challenges

Murphy paid tribute to O’Sullivan’s extraordinary career and the burden he has carried as the face of snooker for over three decades.

“I've had moments in my career where I've been one of the flag bearers for the sport. An expectation of me has been high. Ronnie's had that since 1992 and he's carried the sport on his shoulders, dragged people in from the streets, kicking and screaming to come and watch him play and to carry that weight of expectancy for that length of time must take a toll.”

He concluded with heartfelt wishes for O’Sullivan.

“From a WPBSA player's point of view, we send him all our best regards. We hope he's okay. If he needs us, we're there for him, and I'm sure we'll see him at some stage.”

Murphy’s professionalism and empathy both on and off the table set the tone for an exciting tournament as he looks ahead to a tough test against Robertson in the quarterfinals.