Sometimes, love just needs a little space.
And for snooker legend Ronnie O’Sullivan and actress Laila Rouass, it seems some time apart may have been exactly what they needed to find their way back to each other.
Just nine months after calling it quits on their long-term relationship, the couple has reportedly rekindled things — and they’re planning a big move overseas together.
A Rollercoaster Romance Spanning 13 Years
Ronnie and Laila have had quite the love story.
The couple, who first connected in 2011, were engaged during their 13-year relationship.
But like many real-life romances, theirs had its ups and downs — including a breakup last year that seemed pretty final at the time.
The split happened during a rough patch in Ronnie’s career.
The snooker great — a seven-time world champion — was struggling with form and even started questioning what the future held for him.
Starting Fresh in Dubai
Now, things seem to be shifting — both personally and professionally.
Ronnie recently announced plans to relocate from the UK to the Middle East, and it looks like Laila is on board with the change.
The couple is said to be eyeing Dubai as their new home base, just a short flight from Ronnie’s snooker academy in Saudi Arabia.
According to a source quoted by The Sun:
“The time apart gave them both clarity about what really matters — and it turns out, that’s being together.”
Their £2 million home in Epping Forest is now up for sale, a clear sign that the move is more than just talk.
Laila on Growth After Heartbreak
Following their breakup, Laila didn’t shy away from talking about the emotional aftermath.
She shared openly that the split pushed her into a place of self-reflection and growth.
“Breakups can strip you down to your essence…
I used the pain as fuel,” she said last year.
“I’ve gone through hurt, pain, and anger, but what I learned is that anger is bottomless.”
Despite the raw honesty, it’s clear that she has emerged stronger — and perhaps more ready than ever to embrace a fresh chapter with Ronnie.
Goodbye Snooker Table Dreams, Hello New Life
The couple’s Epping Forest home, known for its plush interiors and Ronnie’s quirky taste (including a portrait of Raquel Welch on a crucifix), is hitting the market.
Fun fact: even though it was his dream house, Ronnie reportedly never managed to convince Laila to let him install a snooker table inside!
Their story began in that very house over a decade ago, when Laila came for a viewing and ended up being shown around by Ronnie’s dad.
Who would’ve guessed that house tour would lead to years of romance, heartbreak, and now — reunion?
Looking Ahead
With their move to the Middle East on the horizon and a new chapter unfolding, it seems Ronnie and Laila are ready to take on life — and love — with renewed perspective.
Whether or not Ronnie steps away from professional snooker, one thing’s for sure: the pair is betting on each other this time around.