Snooker icon Ronnie O'Sullivan has broken his silence about the heartbreaking split from his actress wife Laila Rouass, revealing the couple have been living apart for nearly a year after a decade together.
The seven-time world champion, known for his explosive talent on the green baize, opened up about their separation in a surprisingly candid interview, admitting they've been navigating life separately since last summer.
The Quiet Separation
"We're still good friends," O'Sullivan revealed, his voice tinged with emotion. "We've been apart for about a year now, just trying to figure things out."
The couple, who never officially tied the knot despite referring to each other as husband and wife, share a home that has now become a symbol of their complicated situation. While they maintain separate lives, both still use the property, carefully coordinating their movements to avoid awkward encounters.
A Love Story That Captured Hearts
Their relationship began in 2012, quickly becoming one of Britain's most beloved celebrity partnerships. Rouass, best known for her role as Amber in the BBC soap EastEnders, and the snooker maestro seemed like the perfect match - she with her Bollywood background and acting credentials, he with his sporting genius and charismatic personality.
They became engaged in 2013, with O'Sullivan famously presenting Rouass with a stunning £20,000 diamond ring. Yet despite their public affection and years together, wedding bells never rang for the couple.
Support System in Tough Times
Throughout their relationship, Rouass stood by O'Sullivan during his well-documented battles with depression and addiction. The snooker champion has always been open about his mental health struggles, crediting Rouass with being a pillar of strength during his darkest moments.
Now, as they navigate this new chapter apart, both are leaning on their close-knit circle of friends and family. O'Sullivan continues to dominate the snooker world while Rouass pursues her acting career, both putting on brave faces despite the personal turmoil.
What Next for the Rocket?
At 48, O'Sullivan shows no signs of slowing down in his professional career, recently adding another World Championship title to his impressive collection. But off the table, he faces the challenge of rebuilding his personal life without the woman who's been by his side for ten formative years.
The sporting world watches with sympathy as one of snooker's greatest talents deals with this personal setback, proving that even champions face ordinary heartbreaks.
