John Higgins makes 'sad' Crucible prediction as Wizard of Wishaw vows 'I won't retire'

Scottish snooker legend John Higgins believes his career will outlive the famous Crucible Theatre.

The four-time world champion, 48, is undoubtedly one of the sport’s all-time greats after a trophy-laden three-decade-plus career. There has been plenty of speculation surrounding the Wizard of Wishaw’s future after the Scot said this could well be his last time at the iconic venue. Snooker’s blue-riband event is expected to move away from its spiritual home in Sheffield, where it has been staged since 1977, when the current deal ends in 2027.

But ahead of playing world No.3 Mark Allen in the last 16 of the World Championship, Higgins said: “I won’t retire. This venue will be retired before I retire from snooker. All the noises coming out of the important voices within the game it sounds like we will be leaving here in three years time. It will be a shame. I’ve had tears, joy, everything rolled into one here. Your whole life has revolved around this venue.

“It will be a sad day when it leaves. I’m so lucky that I’ve won it here multiple times. To be standing here on Bank Holiday Monday with the trophy aloft is an unbelievable feeling.”

Rumours of a LIV-style breakaway tour are rife, with world No.1 Ronnie O’Sullivan telling potential rebel players to follow the money. It is understood a number of players have been sounded out by investors to join a rival tour.

Mystic three-time world champion Mark Williams, 49, said he will “miss this place” after he lost in the first round. But Higgins played down fears he could give up the game.

He said: “I’ll still be playing snooker, absolutely I’ll still be playing snooker. I don’t think Mark Williams will be quitting snooker. I think Mark Williams will still be playing snooker.”

Higgi