Former player and broadcaster John Virgo has died at the age of 79, World Snooker has announced.
Virgo’s most notable victory was defeating Terry Griffiths in the 1979 British Championship final.
Other major career victories include the 1980 Bombay International, the 1980 Pontins Professional and the 1984 Professional Snooker League.
John Virgo was well known for both his playing career and his role as a broadcaster.
Virgo enjoyed a long and storied playing career that included winning the British Championship, but is perhaps best known for his work as a broadcaster.
He was a well-established commentator on the BBC’s snooker show and was famous for his catchphrase: “Where does the cue ball go?”
Virgo became famous for his role in the 1990s snooker show ‘The Big Break’ and was a regular on the exhibition circuit with his huge variety of trick shots.
“Everyone on the World Snooker Tour is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of legendary snooker player and broadcaster John Virgo, aged 79,” WST said in a statement.
“Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, JV.”
World Senior Snooker chairman Jason Francis announced the “heartbreaking” news of Virgo’s death in Spain in a post on X’s Snooker Legends account.
“JV did what they wanted until the end and kept everyone entertained,” he said. “He’s a very important person, not only in my life, but in sports in general.
“He was an incredibly loyal friend to me, someone I felt like sitting with him when he was commentating on TV at games.
“This is hard to accept… A great man who touched so many lives and loved the game. We will never forget you. Rest in peace JV.”
This sport honors Virgos.
Virgo spent 18 years as a professional, reaching the World Championship semi-finals in 1979 and also winning the British Championship.
He retired in 1994 and was later inducted into the World Snooker Tour Hall of Fame for his success with the Baize and his work as a broadcaster.
News of his death prompted tributes from those on whom he left an indelible mark.
Seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan wrote: “After the game I heard the news of JV’s passing. Love to Rosie, Brooke and Gary. They were great mates who I loved spending time with. Absolutely heartbroken.”
Four-time world champion Mark Selby posted on X: “So sad to hear of John Virgo’s passing. Such a wonderful man, such a great person. He will be sorely missed. Rest in Peace.”
Neil Robertson, winner of the 2010 World Championships, said: “I am very sad to hear of John Virgo’s passing. He was a great man and a great pundit/commentator.
“I had the honor of sharing a booth with him at the World Championships a few years ago, where I really appreciated his strength.”
