The numbers
In a gripping quarter-final match at the Tour Championship, John Higgins triumphed over Mark Selby with a score of 10-8, showcasing his resilience and skill. After trailing 8-5, Higgins made a remarkable comeback by winning five consecutive frames, demonstrating his experience and determination at the age of 50.
Higgins’ performance included impressive breaks of 56, 92, 74, 78, and 72, highlighting his ability to perform under pressure. “I thought he was beginning to hit the ball superbly so you are thinking maybe it could be the same as last year,” Higgins remarked, reflecting on his previous victory against Selby in last year’s final.
Selby, a formidable opponent, fought hard but ultimately fell short, with Higgins capitalizing on key moments to secure his place in the semi-finals. Neil Robertson, who also advanced by defeating Barry Hawkins 10-8, praised the significance of Higgins’ win, stating, “It’s a great win because alongside John Higgins and Mark Selby, Barry is one of the hardest players to beat.” This sets the stage for an exciting semi-final match.
Higgins will face Zhao Xintong, who convincingly defeated Chris Wakelin 10-4 in his quarter-final match. The upcoming clash between Higgins and Zhao is scheduled for Saturday at 13:00 BST, promising to be a thrilling encounter as both players aim for a spot in the final.
As the tournament progresses, Higgins’ journey continues to captivate fans and observers alike. His ability to come back from a deficit against a top player like Selby speaks volumes about his skill and mental fortitude. With the semi-finals on the horizon, anticipation builds for what could be another memorable chapter in Higgins’ storied career.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the strategies both players will employ in the semi-finals, but one thing is certain: Higgins will be looking to leverage his experience and past successes to secure a place in the final once again.