Shaun Murphy has explained on social media why he has chosen to withdraw from this year’s Shanghai Masters.

The Old Green Baize reported on Monday how World Snooker announced the former world champion’s withdrawal from the invitational event was due to “personal reasons”.

Following that statement, Murphy – ranked number nine in the world – announced on Twitter that his new baby girl Molly had been taken poorly and is currently in hospital.

Shaun Murphy. Picture by Monique Limbos

Murphy, who won last year’s Champion of Champions event, said: “Apologies to everyone concerned, especially the fans in China. Sorry to miss this great event but Molly is more important ❤️”.

World Snooker then added to its initial statement saying: “With his baby daughter Molly ill in hospital, Shaun made the decision to pull out of the tournament to stay with his family.

“He sends his sincere apologies to the fans, promoter and sponsors in Shanghai.”

Stuart Bingham, who would have played Murphy in the second round of the event had it not been for his withdrawal, received a bye into the quarter-final stages after winning his first round match on the opening day.

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