John Higgins experienced a mix of emotions at the World Championship, starting with elation and ending with disappointment. Despite producing his greatest break of all time to defeat Mark Allen in a thrilling match, his joy was short-lived as he fell to Kyren Wilson in the quarter-final. Wilson went on to claim the title with a win over Jak Jones in the final. This marked Higgins’ 30th consecutive season in the top 16, allowing him to compete in the upcoming Shanghai Masters in China.
Reflecting on his performance, Higgins likened his season to a rollercoaster, with highs and lows. He acknowledged the mental challenges of competing in the World Championship and admitted that as he gets older, his mental reserves are not as strong as they once were. Despite the disappointment of his exit, he found solace in the admiration of his fans for his victory over Allen. However, he realized that at this stage of his career, such victories are not as fulfilling as winning the championship.
Looking ahead to the Shanghai Masters, Higgins expressed his excitement about returning to the event where he claimed victory in 2012. He emphasized the importance of competing against the top players in the world and acknowledged the support of the fans in Shanghai. Higgins is eager to make the most of this opportunity, appreciating the fact that he earned his spot in the tournament through his consistent performances over the years.
As Higgins prepares to face Lyu Haotian in the first round of the Shanghai Masters, he is focused on enjoying the experience and embracing the challenges that lie ahead. He recognizes the competition will be tough, with top players competing against wildcard entrants. This diversity in the field adds to the excitement of the event, and Higgins is determined to make the most of his opportunity to compete in Shanghai.
In conclusion, John Higgins’ journey at the World Championship was a testament to his resilience and determination as a snooker player. While he faced disappointment in his quarter-final defeat, he remains motivated to continue competing at the highest level. The Shanghai Masters presents a new opportunity for Higgins to showcase his skills and compete against the best in the world. As he prepares for his upcoming match, Higgins remains focused on staying competitive and enjoying the experience of playing in a prestigious tournament like the Shanghai Masters.
