John Higgins has made headlines once again, winning the World Open final against Joe O'Connor with a score of 10-6, marking his return to form after almost four years without securing a ranking title. The pivotal match, held on March 1, 2025, at Yushan, China, not only earned the Scot £175,000 and rejuvenated his career but also added to his impressive tally of 32 ranking titles.
At 49 years old, Higgins became the oldest player to win a ranking event since Ray Reardon achieved the feat back in 1986. His memorable performance included what TNT Sports commentator Alan McManus described as potentially "the shot of the century." This involved Higgins successfully bunching two reds together with remarkable finesse, illustrating his skillful precision which left the crowd and commentators stunned.
"It's a really proud moment for me," Higgins expressed after the match, reflecting on his extraordinary achievement. "If I'm honest, I didn't know if I was going to win an event again. I'm not sure if I had the belief. But I always hoped it would happen again. I always believed I was good enough to do it. Hopefully, this will give me confidence going forward. It's a really special moment for me. It feels amazing to win again."
For Higgins, the victory was more than just about the title; it was also about rediscovering his confidence. The player endured years of fluctuations, narrowly missing victories and struggling to regain his former brilliance. Fellow player Mark Allen expressed the sentiment felt by many after witnessing Higgins' struggles over time, stating, "I know John had his chances and I feel for John, but he's struggling to get over the line."
After acknowledging his previous difficulties, Higgins embraced positive thinking and even consulted with sports psychologists to help regain his focus and performance strength. "I'm trying to have a different mindset," he noted, mentioning the adjustment to let go of negative thoughts. "It's early days, but it seems to be helping just now. I can't rely on myself."
Following this stunning victory, Higgins became acutely aware of his standing as he joins old friends and rivals, Ronnie O'Sullivan and Mark Williams, who also established themselves as legends from the 'Class of 92'. With 41 ranking titles for O'Sullivan and 32 for Higgins, the trio enjoyed considerable accolades, with their combined titles underscoring their dominance over three decades.
Reflecting on his career alongside O'Sullivan and Williams, Higgins confessed, "I am still in there fighting with the likes of Mark and Ronnie, two great players. I’ll be brutally honest, they are the only two guys I would probably want to sit down with and ask the question: 'How does it feel to still be up there at the top of the game at 49-50?'"
It's remarkable for all three champions, who will celebrate their 50th birthdays, to remain competitive at the highest levels of snooker. Higgins adjoined about his feelings alongside his rivals: "It’s tough, but also enjoyable." His resilience and fierce determination to remain relevant remind fans and players alike of why he earned such accolades and respect within the sport.
Looking forward, Higgins aims to capitalize on his successful momentum by competing at the World Grand Prix later this week, facing off against Ali Carter. Notably, O'Sullivan will miss the event due to medical reasons, marking his seventh consecutive withdrawal from tournaments.
The world of snooker continues to evolve, but veterans like Higgins remind everyone of the glory and spirit involved when chasing through the odds. The remarkable comeback was celebrated not merely as another tournament win; it became emblematic of hope, determination, and the undying passion for the sport he loves. This championship may have reinstated Higgins’ confidence, but it also resonates powerfully with fans and spectators who seek inspiration from sports legends who never give up. Each shot played transcends mere competition; it speaks volumes about tenacity and heart.