Ronnie O’Sullivan ‘devastated’ as world champion pool legend, 52, dies | Other | Sport
Snooker legend Ronnie O’Sullivan has paid a heartfelt tribute to his friend and pool icon Mika Immonen, who has tragically passed away at the age of 52 after a long battle with cancer. Immonen, known as ‘The Iceman’, was a titan in the world of nineball pool and held the distinction of being the only Finnish player to win the World Nineball Championship, a feat he achieved in 2001.
O’Sullivan, devastated by the loss, shared on social media: “So sad to hear of the passing of my friend Mika, someone I did not see enough of but thought a great deal of. Stayed at my house on times in UK and enjoyed our runs in the forest, one of the greatest pool players of the generation, an honour to share a pool table with him but also the personal times together I will never forget. Sadly missed, devastated today. x”.
Immonen further cemented his legendary status in the sport by clinching back-to-back US Open Pool Championship titles in 2008 and 2009.
He was a stalwart at the Mosconi Cup, representing Team Europe on 15 occasions and contributing to four victories. His prowess saw him named player of the decade for the 2000s.
In 2012, Immonen reached the pinnacle of his career when he won the World Cup for Finland alongside Petri Makkonen. He was diagnosed with cancer in 2023.
Matchroom Pool expressed their sadness at the news, stating: “Matchroom and the World Nineball Tour are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Mika Immonen.
“Immonen, known as The Iceman, was widely considered by fans, peers, and pundits to be one of the greatest to ever play the game whilst in his prime. His fearless playing style and incredible shot making won the adoration of fans all over the world.
“A fierce and passionate competitor on the table, his biggest battle came off the table when diagnosed with cancer in 2023. Our thoughts are with Mika’s family, friends, and many fans during this incredibly sad time. Rest in Peace, Iceman.”
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Taking to social media two years ago, Immonen disclosed his heartbreaking diagnosis.
“With much shock to even myself, I am withdrawing from any foreseeable tournaments as I will be fighting the greatest match of my life,” he penned.
“I was experiencing excruciating pain and therefore sleep deprivation while playing and still placing in the quarterfinals in the all Japan championships this past November. I was helped by Naoyuki Oi to the ER to get some answers. Thank you bro. It was a start of a long road of tests… Finally in Costa Rica the biopsy and imaging revealed a stage IV cancer diagnosis.
“My oncologists have informed me that this type of cancer, while very serious, responds well to treatment and although I have an arduous wellness journey before me, I hope to be back in action as soon as practically possible. I am in good hands and I thank you for some of the responses I’m already getting. Everything helps. I’m very optimistic!
“Again I thank my family and friends, my fans and my sponsors. I could not do this without you! I love this game, I love this community, and I love my fans.”
