‘That’s something they’ll regret for the rest of their lives’, says snooker icon as he admits Crucible exit ‘inevitable’
A SNOOKER legend admits that a move away from the Crucible is “inevitable” – but it will lead to a lifetime of “regret”.
The sport’s most famous venue has staged the World Championship since 1977 but the current contract will expire in 2027.
Hossein Vafaei has been slammed by legends after his criticism of the Crucible this week.
The Iranian delivered a fiery rant following his first round defeat to Judd Trump.
Meanwhile, world number one Ronnie O’Sullivan is among those who believe the prestigious tournament should be staged elsewhere.
There has been speculation about a switch to Saudi Arabia and China or potentially to a larger venue on these shores.
And now four-time world champ John Higgins believes it is only a matter of time before it leaves the 1,000-capacity Crucible.
Speaking to BBC ahead of his 30th World Championship appearance, he said: “I think it’s inevitable.
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“The landscape of the snooker world will have changed in three years.
“I’m just lucky that I’ve won it here. It will be sad to leave, it’s been a massive part of my life.
“I think if you asked other players who have never lifted the trophy here, that would be something they would probably regret for the rest of their lives.
“The bank balance might not say that [for future winners], but if you look back on the history and the champions before them, they would love to have won it here because it’s special.
“It’s the best place to play snooker.”
The 48-year-old made his World Championship debut in 1995.
He took the crown in 1998, 2007, 2009 and 2011 and the Scot says he still gets as much excitement heading to Crucible as he did the first time.
He added: “I just want to immerse myself in the tournament and give it everything.
“I still get the same feeling every time I come here, there’s still the same buzz.
“I’m just proud that I’m still competing 30 years later.”