Ronnie O'Sullivan's ex Laila Rouass opens up on 'painful' break-up after decade-long relationship

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Callum Vurley

By Callum Vurley


Published: 23/03/2025

- 14:05

Ronnie O'Sullivan and Laila Rouass broke up towards the end of 2024

Actress Laila Rouass has broken her silence for the first time since parting ways with snooker legend Ronnie O'Sullivan.

The couple's decade-long relationship came to an end in 2024, following what had been described as an on-off romance at times.


Rumours of their split first emerged last September when speculation suggested the pair had gone their separate ways for good.

The 53-year-old actress has now addressed her post-breakup journey at a recent awards ceremony.

Ronnie O'Sullivan Laila RouassRonnie O'Sullivan and Laila Rouass split last yearPA

She previously hinted at the emotional toll of the separation in a candid Instagram post last December.

Speaking at the Mariposa Ball and Awards, Rouass remained tight-lipped about her current relationship status.

The Eastenders star told the Mirror: "I am going to keep that under wraps for now until there is something to speak about."

Her comments come amid ongoing interest in her personal life following the high-profile split from O'Sullivan.

The couple had been together for ten years before their relationship ended.

Their romance first began 13 years ago, with the pair navigating what sources described as an occasionally on-off relationship during that time.

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Rouass has chosen to maintain privacy regarding any new relationships since the breakup.

In December, Rouass shared a revealing Instagram post about her emotional journey following the split.

"Break ups can strip you down to your essence," she wrote.

"I got through mine by using pain as fuel to take control because no matter what, we will lose parts of ourselves in relationships. It's normal, don't beat yourself up."

The actress also revealed she has experienced various emotions during the healing process.

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Ronnie O'SullivanRonnie O'Sullivan and Laila Rouass had been dating for 12 yearsPA

"I've gone through various emotions... hurt, pain, anger but what I've realised about anger is that it's bottomless," she said.

Rouass emphasised she's not trying to return to her former self.

"One thing I'm conscious of not doing is trying to get back where I was. No, I'm discovering who I've become."

Meanwhile, O'Sullivan has sparked concern among fans with his extended absence from competitive snooker.

The 49-year-old has not played since the Championship League in January, where he smashed his cue following a shock defeat to Robert Milkins.

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Ronnie O'Sullivan

Ronnie O'Sullivan has been out of action for nearly four months

PA

He subsequently withdrew from multiple major tournaments including the Masters, Welsh Open, German Masters, World Open and World Grand Prix.

His absence has meant failing to qualify for the Players Championship and Tour Championship.

Some fans have speculated the seven-time world champion might be considering retirement.

However, a potential return at the World Championship in Sheffield could silence doubters questioning whether he can still compete at the highest level after his four-month hiatus.