The Masters

Ronnie O’Sullivan is set to face his Class of 92 rival John Higgins at the Masters next month after being drawn against the Scot in the opening round. The tournament, which forms part of snooker’s Triple Crown alongside the World Championship and UK Championship, is set to get underway at Alexandra Palace on Sunday, January 12.

O’Sullivan and Higgins have gone head-to-head in the Masters final on three occasions. The Rocket won the showpiece matches against the Scot in 1995 and 2005, with Higgins getting his revenge in 2006.

The two players have played each other a total of 79 times during their illustrious careers, with the Rocket winning 41 of those encounters.

O’Sullivan, 48, clinched the Masters title at the start of this year after defeating Ali Carter 10-7 in the final.

That result moved him two clear of Stephen Hendry in the Masters all-time standings, with the Scot tasting success six times at the tournament during his playing days. Higgins, meanwhile, has won the competition twice.