On April 18, 2026, a minute’s applause was held at the Crucible in Sheffield to honor John Virgo, who passed away in February at age 79.
Virgo was a celebrated former UK champion and commentator. He won the UK Championship in 1979 and reached the World Championship semi-finals that same year.
As of midday, the John Virgo Trophy was being competed for, further solidifying his legacy. The tournament began with defending champion Zhao Xintong in action.
Virgo worked for the BBC starting in 1994, becoming a familiar voice in snooker for nearly three decades. His catchphrase—”Where’s the cue ball going?”—remains iconic among fans.
Ronnie O’Sullivan, a seven-time World Champion, referred to Stephen Hendry as “the greatest player he has ever seen.” This highlights the high caliber of players competing in honor of Virgo.
The memorial service for John Virgo took place at Sheffield Cathedral, attended by many notable figures from the sport. Details remain unconfirmed regarding attendance numbers.
In a poignant moment during the tournament, O’Sullivan expressed his admiration for sharing the table with Hendry. “It is a privilege,” he stated, reflecting on their shared history.
This tribute underscores how deeply John Virgo impacted snooker—both as a competitor and as a commentator. His contributions will not be forgotten.