Betfred’s Mark Pearson caught up with John Higgins to discuss his time away from snooker, instead of preparing for what would have been his 26th Crucible appearance at the Betfred World Snooker Championship. We also found out his thoughts on the future of World Snooker and a look back at the highs and lows of his incredible Crucible journey.

Pictured: John Higgins at the Betfred World Snooker Championship

John Higgins “jumped” on the chance to have some fun on the trampoline!

Speaking exclusively to Betfred, the Wizard of Wishaw has enjoyed spending time with his family, but also adds the difficulties of not being able to see his Mum and in-laws during isolation.

“In a way, it’s been good, we’ve been playing all different games together, we’re having dinner together, we’re out in the garden together, the daughter has been showing me things on the trampoline and I’ve pulled a couple of muscles already!”

“It’s also been tough also because you’re not seeing your mum and your in-laws and different things because they’re obviously self-isolating as well.”

John praises the NHS during pandemic

“The NHS are the real heroes; without a shadow of a doubt.“

John had high praises for the NHS and their efforts throughout the pandemic, describing them as “incredible” and “heroes.” He also highlights the importance for everyone in the world to stay safe, stay at home and listen to the Government’s advice.

Pictured: Sports Promoter, Barry Hearn

John Higgins wishes Sports Promoter, Barry Hearn a speedy recovery.

The Wizard of Wishaw only had positive things to say as he looks forward to competing in the next Betfred World Snooker Championship but also expresses the importance of everyone’s safety and health before any form of snooker takes place

“I’ve not missed a year in that amount of time, more than half my life, not to be doing that is heartbreaking, but in a way obviously there are more important things going on.”

Barry Hearn had recently undergone surgery after suffering a minor heart attack on Sunday. Thankfully, he returned home on Wednesday and is in good spirits.

“God we were all really worried about him (Barry Hearn) him as well, I woke up to the news and I just hope he’s getting well and he’s relaxing because I think we all know he is a work workaholic”

Pictured: Crucible Theatre

What does the Crucible Theatre mean to John Higgins?

John Higgins expressed his emotional connection towards the World Championship and the Crucible Theatre. He goes onto say how the tournament can be the best place ever but also the worst place if you’re not performing well. Despite the lows, he adds that when he retires and looks back, they will always be the best nights he will ever have as a snooker professional.

“Blood, sweat and tears, that’s all that the Crucible theatre reminds you of you, it’s a special place, the best place EVER to play your snooker.”

Pictured: John Higgins vs Judd Trump in the 2019 Betfred World Snooker Championship

The highs and lows of John Higgins’ incredible Crucible journey

Betfred’s Mark Pearson and John Higgins take a look back on his fondest memories of the Betfred World Snooker Championship, including:

John’s first World Snooker Championship Title in 1998 and his emotions going into the last session against Ken Doherty.

T he day after winning his first World Title and knocking off one of the greatest players of all-time Stephen Hendry, to become Number 1 in the world.

The lost to Ronnie O’Sullivan in the 2001 World Snooker Championship

His 2 nd World Championship Title in 2006 against Mark Selby and how “The Jester from Leicester” has gone on to become one of the greats in the sport .

His 3 rd World Championship Title in 2009 against Shaun Murphy and his excellent form going into the tournament.

The emotions on and off the table, going into o ne the greatest final session in World Snooker history (vs Judd Trump, 2011) .

The last three defeats at the Betfred World Snooker Championship (2017,2018 and 2019) , including th at epic comeback against David Gilbert in the 2019 Semi- Finals .

The interview ends with John Higgins saying he is going NOWHERE; he will continue to put his heart and soul into giving the fans entertainment and welcoming them back to the next Betfred World Snooker Championship.

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