**EXCLUSIVE: Ronnie O’Sullivan and Laila Rouass Finalize Split Amidst Personal and Professional Shifts**
Snooker legend Ronnie O’Sullivan and actress Laila Rouass have reached a mutual agreement to formally end their 12-year relationship, marking a significant chapter in both their personal lives. The decision comes after months of reflection and discussions, culminating in a clean break that allows both individuals to pursue their respective futures independently.
The couple, who had rekindled their relationship after a previous split in 2022, found that their demanding careers and differing life paths led them to this conclusion. O’Sullivan’s extensive travel for snooker tournaments, particularly in China and Saudi Arabia, and Rouass’s focus on her acting career contributed to their growing distance. A source close to the couple stated, “They’ve tried so hard, but they just can’t make it work.” ([express.co.uk][1], [gbnews.com][2], [lbc.co.uk][3])
**Ronnie O’Sullivan’s New Chapter**
Following the separation, O’Sullivan has decided to relocate from the UK to the Middle East, a move that aligns with both his personal and professional aspirations. The 49-year-old snooker icon has expressed a desire for a fresh start and has been exploring opportunities in the region. He currently owns a snooker academy in Riyadh and is considering settling in Dubai, citing its lifestyle and proximity to the increasingly Asia-centered snooker circuit as appealing factors. ([thetimes.co.uk][4])
This decision also follows a challenging period in O’Sullivan’s career, including a heavy 17-7 World Championship semi-final defeat to Zhao Xintong, which left him uncertain about his future in the sport. Despite this, he remains open to continuing his involvement in snooker while emphasizing that there are more important things in life. ([thetimes.co.uk][4], [thesun.co.uk][5])
**Laila Rouass’s Empowered Path Forward**
Rouass, who has been a prominent figure in British television, is also embracing her independence. In December 2024, she subtly confirmed the end of her relationship with O’Sullivan through a five-word Instagram post: “Back on the Insta. #freepalestine.” ([en.wikipedia.org][6], [sportbible.com][7])
The actress continues to focus on her career, with recent appearances in various television projects. Her decision to move forward independently reflects her commitment to personal growth and professional development.
**A Mutual Decision for a New Beginning**
Both O’Sullivan and Rouass have expressed mutual respect and understanding regarding their decision to part ways. They have agreed to sell their shared £2 million mansion in Chigwell, Essex, with O’Sullivan having already moved out. The sale signifies their commitment to moving forward separately while maintaining a cordial relationship. ([readertts.com][8], [gbnews.com][9])
As they embark on new chapters in their lives, both O’Sullivan and Rouass are focused on personal fulfillment and professional achievements, with their paths diverging but their respect for each other remaining intact.
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[1]: “Ronnie O’Sullivan ‘splits’ from actress fiancee Laila Rouass after 12 years together | Other | Sport | Express.co.uk”
[2]: “Snooker icon Ronnie O’Sullivan breaks cover after ‘splitting from Laila Rouass'”
[3]: “Ronnie O’Sullivan splits from actress fiancee Laila Rouass after 12 years together – LBC”
[4]: “Ronnie O’Sullivan to leave UK and start new life in Middle East”
[5]: “‘I’m going to start a new life somewhere else’ – Ronnie O’Sullivan reveals he is quitting the UK to live overseas”
[6]: “Laila Rouass”
[7]: “Ronnie O’Sullivan’s ex-fiancee Laila Rouass breaks silence with five-word Instagram message after shock split – Snooker – SPORTbible”
[8]: “Ronnie O’Sullivan and ex Laila Rouass’ luxury five-bed mansion as it ‘hits market for £2m’ – Reader TTS”
[9]: “Ronnie O’Sullivan update as snooker icon ‘puts luxury £2m mansion up
for sale’ after Laila Rouass split”
