John Virgo, the renowned snooker commentator, has passed away at the age of 79. He was widely recognized as the prominent voice of snooker and recently made his final appearance during the BBC’s Masters tournament. Originally from Salford, Virgo had a successful career as a player, clinching the UK Championship title in 1979. He breathed his last in Spain, where he resided.
The World Seniors Snooker chairman, Jason Francis, confirmed Virgo’s passing through a social media post, expressing deep sorrow over the loss. Virgo was cherished for his dedication to the sport and his captivating commentary that entertained audiences until the end.
Following the news, tributes poured in from various personalities in the snooker world. The BBC and the World Snooker Tour expressed their condolences, remembering Virgo as a legendary figure in the sport. Fellow snooker icons like Ronnie O’Sullivan, Stephen Hendry, Shaun Murphy, and Neil Robertson also honored Virgo’s memory, highlighting his significant contributions to snooker.
Having retired from playing in 1994, Virgo transitioned into a celebrated commentator, with his famous catchphrase “Where’s the cue ball going?” becoming iconic. He was also known for his flamboyant style and trick shots. Additionally, Virgo co-hosted the popular snooker program, Big Break, alongside comedian Jim Davidson.
In his later years, Virgo moved to Spain with his wife, Rosie Ries, seeking relief from a persistent neck injury. Despite his struggles, Virgo’s passion for snooker remained evident, making a lasting impact on the sport and its community. He leaves behind a legacy as a beloved figure in snooker history.