Thirty years ago, John Higgins and Ronnie O'Sullivan met for the first time at the World Snooker Championship in a memorable quarter-final. Now, at age 50, the two legends are set to face off again in the last 16 at the Crucible Theatre.
Higgins vividly recalls that 1996 match, where he led 12-11 but missed a crucial pink, allowing O'Sullivan to win the decider. "I remember it as clear as day," said Higgins. "It was one of my most painful losses."
Remarkably, both players are still at the top of the sport, with O'Sullivan holding seven world titles and Higgins four. They join fellow 'Class of 92' member Mark Williams in the last 16. "We deserve a great pat on the back," added Higgins.
Their rivalry has seen six Crucible meetings, with three wins each. O'Sullivan acknowledged the special nature of their encounters: "Every meeting is a big occasion."
Higgins admitted this could be their final match at the Crucible. "There's a big chance this could be our final game, so it will be something to savour – it will be special," he said.