Ronnie O’Sullivan smashed his cue against the table shortly before withdrawing from the Championship League ahead of his final group game. 

He had been taking on Robert Milkins at the event in Leicester, with one final group game against Ali Carter scheduled for later on this afternoon. 

Instead, the seven-time world champion has chosen to withdraw from the event, having endured a torrid time at the table. 

O’Sullivan lost three of his four matches in the group stage phase on Wednesday, with his frustrations bubbling over to Thursday’s action. 

O’Sullivan, who had been leading 2-1 in sets at the time against Milkins, was seen throwing his cue on the corner of the table after missing what he deemed an easy pot in the bottom left pocket. 

The pink ball that O’Sullivan was aiming to sink fired back off the cushion, with the snooker star opting to take his irritation out on his no doubt expensive bit of kit. 

He went on to lose the contest against Milkins 3-2, but not before he appeared to give up on the tie completely. 

During the fifth and final frame, O’Sullivan could be seen paying barely any attention to the make-up of the balls on the table. 

Instead, he opted to fire the cue ball into a crowded area of balls, with the 49-year-old skulking back to his seat without checking where his shot ended up. 

MORE TO FOLLOW

We’ll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures and video on this breaking news story.

For the latest news and breaking news visit: /sport/football. Stay up to date with all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter @‌dexpress_sport – the official Daily Express & Express.co.uk Twitter account – providing real news in real time.

We’re also on Facebook @‌dailyexpresssport – offering your must-see news, features, videos and pictures throughout the day to like, comment and share from the Daily Express, Sunday Express and Express.co.uk.