Ronnie O’Sullivan has expressed his condolences following the passing of Mika Immonen, the renowned pool player who recently lost his battle with cancer at the age of 52.
Immonen, a former world nineball pool champion, was highly respected in the sport and shared a close friendship with snooker legend O’Sullivan, who was deeply saddened by the news.
In a heartfelt message, O’Sullivan shared, “I am deeply saddened by the loss of my friend Mika. Although we didn’t spend as much time together as I would have liked, I held him in high regard. Our moments together, whether playing pool or enjoying nature, were truly memorable. Mika was a phenomenal talent on the pool table, and his absence will be keenly felt. Rest in peace.”
Immonen made history in 2001 as the first Finnish player to clinch the World Nineball Championship title. He further solidified his legacy by securing consecutive victories at the US Open Pool Championship in 2008 and 2009.
Nicknamed The Iceman, Immonen was a fixture at the Mosconi Cup, representing Team Europe in 15 appearances and contributing to four team victories. He was honored as the player of the decade for the 2000s.
His most significant achievement came in 2012 when he triumphed in the World Cup alongside Petri Makkonen. In 2023, Immonen received a cancer diagnosis, marking a challenging turn in his life.
Matchroom Pool issued a statement mourning Immonen’s passing, acknowledging his unparalleled skill and impact on the game. The announcement highlighted his fearless playing style and global fan following.
Tributes poured in from fans, with one admirer describing Immonen as a fierce competitor on the table and a gentleman off it. Another offered prayers for his family during this difficult time.
In a social media post from two years ago, Immonen revealed his cancer diagnosis and his determination to face the challenge head-on. Despite the tough road ahead, he expressed gratitude to his support system and remained optimistic about his recovery.
Immonen’s legacy as a pool icon and his resilience in the face of adversity continue to inspire fans and players alike.