**Ronnie O’Sullivan and Laila Rouass Finalise Separation with Sale of Former Shared Home**
Renowned snooker champion Ronnie O’Sullivan and television actress Laila Rouass have officially agreed to sell the home they once shared, drawing a close to their relationship after more than a decade together. This development comes in the wake of their widely publicised split last December, following a notably eventful 12-year romance marked by both connection and turbulence.
The pair, whose engagement was announced in 2013 though they never married, put the five-bedroom property on the market earlier this year, seeking around £2 million for the house situated in Woodford Green, east London. Sources close to the couple have now confirmed that the home has been sold, subject to contract, marking a significant milestone in their efforts to achieve a complete and amicable separation.
O’Sullivan, aged 49 and one of snooker’s brightest stars with seven world titles to his name, originally purchased the residence with Rouass for £1.35 million in the summer of 2018. Laila Rouass, 53, is herself a well-known figure in British television, recognised for her roles in dramas including *Footballers’ Wives* and *EastEnders*.
Reports indicate that O’Sullivan is contemplating a move away from the UK entirely, citing new horizons and personal transformation in light of his recent experiences. Speaking candidly after his exit from the World Snooker Championship a month ago, O’Sullivan made it clear that significant changes were on the horizon for him. “There’s going to be a few changes in my life. I think I’m going to be moving out of the UK,” he said. O’Sullivan, who has established a snooker academy in the Middle East, hinted that his future may lie overseas, although he has thus far declined to elaborate on precise plans regarding the continuation of his playing career.
Reflecting on their relationship, it began in 2012 in an unexpected fashion: Rouass, house-hunting at the time, viewed one of O’Sullivan’s properties and was introduced to him through a mutual friend who worked as an estate agent. Their connection blossomed from there, though the journey was not without drama, including reports of familial tensions and previous break-ups before their permanent separation late last year.
Rouass publicly confirmed the conclusion of their relationship following speculation generated when she was seen without her engagement ring during a television appearance in August. She later addressed the situation with her characteristic openness, sharing her thoughts on social media. “Breakups can strip you down to your essence. I got through mine by using pain as fuel to take control… It’s normal, don’t beat yourself up,” she wrote. Rouass spoke of the importance of embracing new beginnings and self-discovery after the end of a significant chapter, noting that break-ups, far from being solely painful, can be transformative and even positive experiences.
Despite their separation, those close to O’Sullivan and Rouass suggest that the former couple remain on good terms, prioritising a respectful and collaborative approach as they settle shared affairs. The sale of their home is seen as a pivotal and practical step towards fully disentangling their personal and financial lives, while both focus on their respective futures.
This development comes at a time when both individuals appear to be embracing significant change and reflection. O’Sullivan’s potential move abroad not only signals a new adventure in his personal hour but also leaves fans curious about what lies ahead for one of snooker’s most mercurial talents. Meanwhile, Rouass continues to speak candidly about personal growth and the teaching power of life’s transitions, resonating with followers inspired by her message of resilience.
As both O’Sullivan and Rouass part ways with the home where so much of their shared history unfolded, it seems clear that each is preparing to embark on fresh journeys – ones defined by self-discovery, professional ambition, and a commitment to forging new paths after the close of a significant chapter.