Four-time world champion John Higgins secured a 10-7 victory over Joe O'Connor at the World Snooker Championship yesterday, setting up a last-16 tie with Xiao Guodong.
The 49-year-old Scot delivered a strong performance in the second session after a slow start against O'Connor.
Despite ending the mid-way stage down just 5-4, Higgins rallied with what was described as a "barnstorming second session" to claim the win.
"That was a tough game," Higgins said after the match. "I thought Joe played great in the first session and I just managed to scramble out at 5-4. Tonight I played better."
John Higgins held back tears and consoled by BBC host in emotional interview after Joe O'Connor victory
BBC
What followed was an emotional moment as Higgins broke down in tears during his live BBC interview.
The Scot was visibly overcome with emotion as he struggled to continue speaking.
BBC host Seema Jaswal quickly stepped in to comfort the snooker star, giving him a warm embrace.
It was a rare display of vulnerability from the veteran player, who later described it as "the most emotional I have ever been".
The touching scene came after what had clearly been a difficult few days for Higgins and his family.
Viewers witnessed the raw emotion as Higgins choked back tears before being consoled by the sympathetic presenter.
Higgins revealed that his father-in-law had suffered a heart attack the previous week, which had cast doubt on whether he would appear at the Crucible at all.
The snooker ace had missed media day on Thursday and the annual pre-tournament traditions such as the Champions Dinner and Green Carpet Ceremony.
While other top players travelled to Sheffield, Higgins remained in Scotland by his wife Denise's side during this worrying time for their family.
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Joe O'Connor was beaten by John Higgins 10-7 at the Crucible
PA
"I left my wife and I was in tears. Obviously my father-in-law wasn't great," Higgins explained.
He also shared how memories of his late father had surfaced: "I was sitting having dinner with my boy last night and I was thinking about sitting here with my dad 25 years ago."
The emotional toll was evident as Higgins admitted: "I was drained today."
"I had a couple of hours sleep and I came out tonight and felt a lot better and played a lot better," he continued.
John Higgins interview after the match 🥲#WorldSnookerChampionship pic.twitter.com/EbFhGVUhtn
— 147mag (@147Magtr) April 22, 2025
Despite the personal challenges, Higgins expressed pride in his performance at this stage of his career.
"I am still so proud that I am still playing at a good level at this age," the 49-year-old said.
This victory comes during what has been described as a "tremendous campaign" for Higgins, who has already won two ranking titles this season.
Last year, he had admitted he might have played his final matches in Sheffield after nearly falling out of the top 16.
