World Sports

Snooker legend, BBC commentator, John Virgo, dies at 79

Snooker legend and BBC commentator, John Virgo, has died at the age of 79, World Snooker confirmed on Tuesday, marking the end of a career that spanned nearly two decades as a player and many more years in broadcasting.

Virgo enjoyed an 18-year professional playing career, winning the 1979 UK Championship among four non-ranking titles and reaching the semi-finals of the World Championship the same year.

He became widely known to a broader audience after moving into television, presenting the snooker programme Big Break alongside comedian Jim Davidson from 1991 to 2002.

After retiring from professional play in 1994, Virgo joined the BBC as a commentator and remained a regular voice of the sport for many years.

ALSO READ: Celtic legend, John Deans, dies aged 79

His final BBC commentary came 17 days ago, when Kyren Wilson defeated John Higgins in the Masters final.

Virgo was known for his clear style and his familiar catchphrase, “where’s the cue ball going?”, used when a player was close to committing a foul.

In a statement, World Snooker said, “Everyone at the World Snooker Tour is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of legendary snooker player and broadcaster John Virgo.

“Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, JV.”

(BBC News)

Oluwabukola Adeogun

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