Emotional Tribute to Snooker's 'Voice' John Virgo Moves Legends at Crucible
Snooker legend Steve Davis was seen fighting back tears as an emotional tribute was paid to the late commentator John Virgo at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield. A poignant minute's applause resonated through the venue before the opening session of this year's World Snooker Championships, honouring Virgo, who passed away in February at the age of 79.
A Storied Career Remembered
John Virgo, who famously won the UK Championship in 1979, enjoyed a long and illustrious career in the sport. However, he was perhaps best known to millions as the broadcaster dubbed the 'voice of snooker'. The Salford-born star became an established part of the BBC's coverage, renowned for his iconic catchphrase, 'Where's the cue ball going?'.
Virgo's popularity extended beyond commentary, with his role on the 1990s snooker television game show Big Break making him a household name. He was also a regular on the exhibition circuit, dazzling audiences with his vast array of impressive trick shots.
A Crucible Moment of Respect
BBC presenter Hazel Irvine oversaw the heartfelt tribute at the Crucible, inviting snooker legends and fans alike to participate in the applause. Six-time world champion Steve Davis was visibly on the verge of tears during the emotional moment, reflecting the deep loss felt across the snooker community.
'We would first like to pay tribute to our dear friend and colleague John Virgo, who passed away in February this year. It was a tremendous shock to all of us,' Irvine began. 'John was universally loved by everyone in this sport and well beyond it, too. John really was the Voice of Snooker.'
Irvine highlighted Virgo's significant contributions, noting he played in the first ever Crucible championship in 1977 and that winning the UK title in 1979 was the zenith of his playing career. His humour endeared him to millions on Big Break, and as a commentator from 1985 onwards, his wit and wisdom shone through.
'He was a master story-teller, a superb professional, who conveyed the drama and the tension, the fun and emotion of this great sport with his unmistakable voice. He really is irreplaceable,' Irvine added, before inviting the audience to celebrate his life with applause.
Legends Unite in Remembrance
Davis was among a host of world champions, including Stephen Hendry, Dennis Taylor, and John Parrott, who participated in the tribute. Fellow snooker greats Jimmy White and Alan McManus also joined in, demonstrating the widespread respect and affection for Virgo.
This public tribute followed a memorial service held just two days earlier at Sheffield Cathedral, arranged by 1997 world snooker champion Ken Doherty and master of ceremonies Rob Walker. Entry was offered to 600 people on a first-come, first-served basis, underscoring the high demand to honour Virgo.
Personal Reflections from a Friend
Steve Davis offered a personal tribute to his friend at the memorial, reflecting on Virgo's integral role in snooker's history. 'We're going to miss him dearly, a great commentator but a good friend to us all, he made you feel very special,' Davis told PA.
'We all thought we were friends with John because he had a great heart and he was funny, sometimes cantankerous but we loved him for that. All in all, he was part of snooker's furniture, he was part of snooker's history and a wonderful commentator. He got the best out of every match.'
The memorial event came after a funeral held for Virgo on February 14 in Spain, where he had been residing. The collective outpouring of grief and celebration at the Crucible and Sheffield Cathedral highlights the enduring legacy of John Virgo, whose voice and personality became synonymous with the sport he loved.
