Very sad news emerging from Berlin today as we have learned of the passing of John Higgins senior, father of the current world number one who lost his long battle with cancer today…
According to reports, following his 5-3 victory against Robert Milkins this morning, John Higgins was informed that his father’s condition had worsened and understandably chose to withdraw from the event immediately and take the first flight back. Unfortunately however John senior appears to have passed away prior to his son making it back to Scotland.
Having not met him personally, only seeing him around the venues from time to time, I do not have any memories of John myself but it is clear from the outside that he played a great role in the career of his son and is talked of highly by those within the game. Indeed on Twitter there have already been a few messages left by those within the game:
Sad to report John Higgins’s father has passed away
Condolences go to John Higgins and family on the passing of his father, John senior.
rest in peace John Higgins snr. Was a pleasure to have known you and i Will raise a glass to you tonight as we did together many times.
Just heard the shocking news John Higgins Snr. passed away. RIP John. Condolences go out to the family
You were a wonderful man and it was a privilege to have had so many great moments with you. I will never forget you. RIP John Higgins Snr.
Very saddened to hear about John Higgins Snr, my thoughts are with the family…