Stephen Hendry has declined a two-year tour card invitation from World Snooker to focus on other commitments.
The 55-year-old seven-time world champion returned to the game in 2020 after initially retiring in 2012.
What happened?
Hendry received two-year invitational tour cards in 2020 and 2022 but has now declined a renewal.
He cited his media work and an ambassadorial role in China as reasons for his decision.
The World Snooker statement read: "Stephen Hendry was offered an invitational tour card but has decided not to accept."
Why it matters for Stephen Hendry
Hendry's decision marks the end of a successful playing career, with his last two years on tour being unfruitful.
He did not win a match in his final two years, and his body was not performing as well as his brain wanted it to.
Hendry added: "Let's be honest, I wasn't pulling up any trees, was I?"
What comes next?
Ken Doherty, the 1997 world champion, has accepted a two-year invitational card, which will take him to 36 years on the tour.
Doherty would have lost his card due to his performances this year, but the new card ensures his continuation on the tour.
Hendry will now focus on his CueTips YouTube Channel and brand, as well as his broadcast commitments.
He still knows the game inside out, but his body is not cooperating, and he cannot dedicate enough time to practicing.
Hendry's decision is a significant one, as it brings an end to his playing career as a professional snooker player.
The standard of the game has improved, and Hendry was surprised by how good it was, but he cannot keep up.
His media work and ambassadorial role in China will now take center stage, and he will not be competing at the same level.
The World Snooker tour will miss Hendry, but he will still be involved in the sport through his other commitments.