Marco Fu set for extended break

Marco Fu has confirmed that he requires an extended spell away from the tables on doctor’s advice after undergoing laser eye surgery.

The world number nine was recently diagnosed with retinal degeneration and Fu wasted little time in seeking the correct treatment.

As a result he will need to spend an extended period away from the sport he loves so much to ensure he can come back in the future with no further complaints.

‘Hong Kong Fury’ underwent laser eye treatment after revealing that he has suffered with problems in his left eye since the beginning of the season.

The 40-year-old’s form has notably dropped away this term, having enjoyed one of his best ever campaigns in 2016-17 when he won the Scottish Open, made it to the final of the Players Championship and into the last eight at the World Championship.

However, he has failed to find those levels of consistency again this season due to the injury.

Fu said on Facebook: “I was told by the doctor that I’m suffering from retinal degeneration, laser surgery’s been done so no worries! The doctor recommends a rest to avoid retinal detachment. Therefore I will not take part in any competition for the coming months.”

Fu, who will be absent from this week’s German Masters in Berlin, was knocked out at the last 32 stage in 2017 with England’s David Gilbert prevailing 5-3.

Defending German Masters champion Anthony Hamilton is priced at 1.91 to make a winning start this year, while his opponent Jimmy Robertson can be backed at 1.80 to come out on top in their duel.