21 years and 9 days after his first ranking title, the 1994 Grand Prix, John Higgins won his 28th in Daqing, China. It marks a fantastic return to form for the four time World Champion in 2015, after previous victories at the Welsh Open and Australian before yesterdays triumph.
His 28th ranking title puts him joint 2nd in the all time list with his boyhood hero Steve Davis and one ahead of Ronnie O’Sullivan, although Stephen Hendry is still a way off with his 36. This week was probably John’s most consistent tournament since the 2011 World Championships, all but one of his sessions – the opening four frame mini session versus Michael Holt, in which he trailed 1-3 - he performed at a very high level and dismantled his highly esteemed opponents. In fact his performances have created quite a buzz on Twitter as fellow pro’s took the time out to voice their praise of the Wizard of Wishaw.
Dave Gilbert cannot be forgotten in all of this, a remarkable week has culminated in a disappointing defeat but Dave is now on the cusp of the top 16 for the first time in his career, having jumped 21 positions from 40th to 19th. He came through tough battles all week and he performed strongly in his first ranking event final and at 34 Dave is a spring chicken in the modern world of snooker.
Next up on the snooker tour is a trip to Sofia for the European Tour event but John I’m sure will be looking to the upcoming Champion of Champions and probably more importantly the UK Championship in December.
To finish here is the amazing Pink John potted to effectively beat Joe Perry in the semi finals.
Next up on the snooker tour is a trip to Sofia for the European Tour event but John I’m sure will be looking to the upcoming Champion of Champions and probably more importantly the UK Championship in December.
To finish here is the amazing Pink John potted to effectively beat Joe Perry in the semi finals.