Age but a number as John Higgins claims World Open title

John Higgins has become the oldest winner of a ranking tournament in 43 years after claiming the World Open crown.

The Scot, who turns 50 in May, beat Joe O'Connor 10-6 in the final in Yushan, China to claim his first title since 2021.

O'Connor, the 29-year-old from Leicester, trailed 9-4 going into the final session but pulled two frames back, the second with a fine clearance including a nerveless double on the green.

But Higgins got over the line with a break of 100 to claim the €212,000 (£175,000) winner's prize.

He is the second-oldest winner of a ranking event after Ray Reardon, who was 50 when he won the 1982 Professional Players' Tournament.