John Higgins, Mark Williams and Ronnie O'Sullivan have all been at the top level of snooker for more than 30 years At a combined age of 99, two of snooker's all-time greats go head-to-head on Tuesday as John Higgins takes on Mark Williams with a place in the World Championship semi-finals up for grabs. The sport's legendary 'Class of 92', with Ronnie O'Sullivan completing the trio, have won 14 world titles between them - and are all still going strong this year. Williams turned 50 last month, Higgins reaches his half century 13 days after this year's final with O'Sullivan celebrating his 50th birthday in December. But they have again proved that age is just a number. Could one of them again go all the way at the Crucible? The first session of their best-of-25 quarter-final takes place on Tuesday at 10:00 BST, with the second session at 19:00 BST, before the match is played to a finish from 10:00 BST on Wednesday Williams has become the oldest man to reach the last eight at the Crucible since six-time winner Steve Davis did so at the age of 52 back in 2010. But one of Williams' oldest opponents stands in his way. "Twenty years ago, we were really big rivals - now we walk into the practice room and we give each other a nod as if to say: 'How are we still here competing with everybody?'" said Higgins. It is a sentiment Williams agrees with. "Normally the older you get, the worse you get," he said. "Your eyes are going, everything is going and your stamina drops a bit and you get tired a lot more easier. "But somehow us three are hanging around like a bad smell." With O'Sullivan in the opposite half of the draw a final between two of the 'Class of 92', named after the year they turned professional, is a real possibility. "If one of those three players was to win the World Championship, maybe beat a young whippersnapper in the final, what an achievement that would be. Maybe their best ever achievement," said Davis. Fifteen years ago, Davis defeated Mark King 10-9 in the Crucible first round, won 13-11 against a then-34-year-old Higgins, the reigning champion, before losing 13-5 to eventual winner Neil Robertson in the last eight. "It was a fantastic buzz, I maybe ran out of belief," recalled Davis. "Hopefully they don't do that. They are much more in touch with the top part of the game than I was." Mark Williams and John Higgins at the China Open in March 2006 The trio's achievements are legendary. O'Sullivan has seven world titles, Higgins four and Williams three. If any of them lift the trophy on Monday, 5 May, they would become the oldest winner in the modern era, breaking O'Sullivan's record when he won it three years ago, aged 46. Thirty-three years ago they were all hungry, driven, talented teenagers with the desire to reach the top. Williams described how he first met Higgins at the final of an event in 1990, when they were both 15. "We played in the final and he beat me," said the Welshman. "It was live on TV and he beat me 6-1, he had five grand for a win, I had three grand for runner-up. "We then played in the British Under-16s in Birmingham and I thrashed him 4-0 after 50 minutes and I got 200 quid so I was a week late. "That was the first time I really remembered John as it was me and O'Sullivan playing in all the junior events when we were 13 and 14." Williams and Higgins have their own Crucible history and have met five times, with four victories for Williams, including an 18-16 success in an epic showdown in the 2018 final. "That world final was one of the best games I've ever been involved in and people say it was the best final ever," said Williams. Williams hopes eye surgery in June will help to extend his snooker career Ken Doherty, the 1997 world champion, played against the 'Class of 92' throughout his career and felt this match was "the tie of the round". "They've been at the top of the game since 1992, 33 years, and are still at the top and still producing," the Irishman said. "As you get older it becomes a lot more difficult as players like me, Stephen Hendry, Alan McManus, Peter Ebdon have all found out. It's hard to cope in terms of tension, intensity and also to be able to devote your life to the game. "You become a father, a family man and it's hard to dedicate themselves to the game but they still have the appetite, willingness and hunger and that's an incredible talent as well. "I've been logging heads with them for 30 years. I've beaten them all but also lost to them all in big finals. I just had great times playing them and you used to relish it as it was a great test of your own game." Doherty, who is part of the BBC TV team for the competition, felt the atmosphere would be electric. "When you see them coming into the Crucible for their match they will get a standing ovation as they did in the Masters," he added. "We might not see the kind of these three again so we have to enjoy them while we can. They've given the sport great entertainment, great matches and are still delivering." Shaun Murphy tipped Judd Trump, who beat him 13-10 on Monday, to win the title but thought the Williams-Higgins clash would be "fabulous for the sport". He added: "The Class of 92 are three of the best players we've ever seen and it's wonderful we still get to watch them. "None of them would be here if they didn't want to be, they obviously love it enough to put themselves through it." Ronnie O'Sullivan became the oldest man in the modern era to become world champion with his victory over Judd Trump in the 2022 final World number one Trump will play the winner of Williams-Higgins in the semi-final if he triumphs in his own quarter-final against Luca Brecel. Trump felt the veteran trio would continue to feature at the top level for years to come. "They inspired me a little bit, especially Ronnie and John when I younger," said Trump. "Ronnie was someone I really looked up to. They're miles away from retiring and not far from their absolute best. "When I played Williams in the semi-finals (when Trump won a final-frame decider for a 17-16 win in 2022) I've never seen him play like that. "These three could be here when they're 65 if they wanted to be."
'Class of 92' graduates aim for more Crucible glory
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Veteran Snooker Stars Higgins and Williams Clash in World Championship Quarter-Final"
Bbc News
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TruthLens AI Summary
John Higgins, Mark Williams, and Ronnie O'Sullivan, all members of snooker's iconic 'Class of 92', are set to face off in a highly anticipated quarter-final match at the World Championship. With a combined age of 99, these legendary players have dominated the sport for over three decades, collectively securing 14 world titles. The upcoming match between Higgins and Williams marks a significant moment as they both approach their 50th birthdays, showcasing that age has not diminished their competitive spirit. Williams, who recently turned 50, is the oldest player to reach the last eight at the Crucible since Steve Davis in 2010. Higgins reflects on their enduring rivalry, noting the camaraderie that has developed over the years, while Williams humorously acknowledges the challenges of aging in a physically demanding sport. The first session of their best-of-25 match will commence on Tuesday morning, with the possibility of a rematch between any of the three legends in the finals, should they continue their successful runs in the tournament.
The trio's remarkable careers are characterized by their relentless pursuit of excellence and their ability to adapt to the evolving challenges of the game. Each player has a storied history at the Crucible, with Williams and Higgins having faced off five times previously, including a memorable final in 2018. Their longevity in the sport is a testament to their dedication and talent, as noted by former champion Ken Doherty, who emphasizes the extraordinary nature of their continued success amidst the rigors of professional snooker. The atmosphere surrounding their matches is electric, and fans are eager to witness the legacy these players continue to build. As younger players like Judd Trump rise through the ranks, the 'Class of 92' remains a formidable presence in the sport, inspiring the next generation while proving that passion and skill can defy age. Observers believe that their participation in the tournament not only enhances the competition but also provides a nostalgic connection to the sport's rich history.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article explores the ongoing relevance and success of the legendary snooker players known as the 'Class of 92'. With John Higgins, Mark Williams, and Ronnie O'Sullivan still competing at a high level in their late 40s and early 50s, the narrative emphasizes their resilience and skill despite the challenges of aging in a physically demanding sport. The piece generates excitement around their potential clash in the World Championship semi-finals, highlighting the significance of their careers and the possibility of another triumph.
Purpose of the Article
The intent behind this piece appears to be to celebrate the enduring legacy of these iconic players while generating interest in the upcoming matches at the World Championship. By focusing on their age and achievements, the article aims to inspire both fans and younger players, reinforcing the idea that age does not diminish talent and competitiveness. This narrative could serve to elevate the status of snooker as a sport where experience can triumph over youth.
Public Perception
The article contributes to a sense of admiration and nostalgia among snooker fans, portraying the players as timeless icons of the sport. It fosters a perception that the legacy of these athletes is not only intact but thriving, which may resonate positively with audiences who appreciate longevity in sports.
Information Omission
There doesn't seem to be any significant information being concealed; however, the focus on the three players may overshadow the achievements of other competitors or the broader context of the tournament. The article centers on the emotional and historical aspects of the players, which might lead to a less critical examination of their current performances or the emerging talent in the sport.
Manipulative Elements
While the article does not overtly manipulate information, it uses nostalgic language and celebrates the players' longevity, which could potentially skew public perception to favor these veterans over newer competitors. The choice of words, such as “hanging around like a bad smell,” creates a light-hearted, yet somewhat derogatory tone towards aging, which could be seen as a manipulation of sentiment.
Comparative Analysis
When compared to other sports news, this article fits within a trend of highlighting veteran athletes maintaining high performance levels. Stories about older athletes often draw interest as they challenge societal norms regarding age and capability, fostering a narrative of resilience and perseverance.
Impact on Society and Economy
The excitement surrounding veteran players might encourage increased viewership and attendance at events, boosting the sport's economic aspects through ticket sales and merchandise. Moreover, the narrative could inspire younger generations to pursue snooker, potentially leading to a resurgence in interest in the sport.
Support from Communities
This article likely appeals to older demographics who have followed these players throughout their careers, as well as younger audiences who admire skill and longevity in sports. By focusing on the emotional aspects of competition, it resonates with fans who value tradition and legacy.
Market Influence
While this article does not directly impact stock markets, it could influence the business performance of snooker-related enterprises, such as broadcasting rights and sponsorships. Brands associated with these players may benefit from increased visibility and fan engagement.
Geopolitical Context
There is no explicit connection to global power dynamics in this article. However, the emphasis on sports as a unifying factor could reflect broader societal themes of resilience and competition, which are relevant in today's world.
Use of AI in Writing
It’s unclear if AI was used in crafting this article, but the structured and engaging nature may suggest assistance in drafting or editing. If AI was involved, it likely focused on enhancing readability and ensuring a compelling narrative flow.
Reliability Assessment
This article appears to be reliable, presenting factual information about the players and their achievements while framing it within the context of the current tournament. The tone is celebratory, which is typical for sports journalism, especially when covering beloved figures in the sport.