Snooker icons including six-time world champion Steve Davis struggled to hold back tears during an emotional tribute to the late John Virgo at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield. The standing ovation echoed through the venue ahead of the World Championship’s opening matches.
Honoring the Voice of Snooker
John Virgo, known as the ‘Voice of Snooker,’ passed away at age 79 at his home in Mijas Costa, Spain, in February. The tribute unfolded as coverage of the tournament began, with presenter Hazel Irvine leading the heartfelt moment.
Legends such as Stephen Hendry, Dennis Taylor, and Ken Doherty joined in paying respects before the first match. Irvine addressed the crowd, stating, “Before we get our championship underway, we would first like to pay tribute to our dear friend and colleague John Virgo, who passed away in February.”
She continued, “It was a tremendous shock to all of us. John was universally loved by everyone in this sport and well beyond it, too. John really was the voice of snooker.”
A Minute of Applause
Following a short video tribute, the audience rose for a minute’s applause. Irvine added, “And so while we are all desperately sad here, we’re determined to celebrate this great man’s life and work in this sport. So in the Crucible and beyond, we would invite those of you who can to please stand for John and offer a minute’s applause.”
The gathering underscored Virgo’s enduring legacy in snooker, uniting players and fans in remembrance.
