• [Daily Mirror Icon]
• Sport
• Other Sports
• John Virgo

John Virgo's final words on BBC as sporting world mourns loss of 'the voice of snooker'

John Virgo was still commentating on snooker for the BBC weeks before his death at the age of 79, including the Masters final, as Kyren Wilson beat John Higgins

[John Virgo looking upwards]

View 2 Images

John Virgo was working on the BBC weeks before his death(Image: PA)

John Virgo's last words on the BBC were a tribute to Kyren Wilson after the Masters final in mid-January. The veteran snooker commentator has now died, at 79, weeks later, as confirmed on Wednesday morning.

Wilson beat the two-time champion John Higgins at Alexandra Palace a year after losing to Shaun Murphy. He was the first player since Ronnie O'Sullivan in 2016 and 2017 to reach back-to-back Masters finals, and finally won the second Triple Crown event after twice being runner-up.

Virgo monologued on commentary after Wilson won the match. He said: "And now he can relax, the job is done.

"Runner-up twice in the Masters but a winner this time. John Higgins will approach the table, shake his hand, and say: 'Well played.'

"John Higgins was disappointing. He had a great run to the final, but just couldn't produce it today.

JOIN US ON FACEBOOK! All the best sports news and much more on our dedicated Facebook page

"But Kyren Wilson, every credit, he's been the big scorer all through the tournaments. And it's Kyren Wilson now who is the Johnstone's Paint Masters champion, his second Triple Crown victory!"

Chairman of World Seniors Snooker Jason Francis announced Virgo's death. He posted on the Snooker Legends account on X: "Heartbreaking to share the news that we've lost the great 'JV' John Virgo this morning, he passed away in Spain.

"Rosie and Brooke-Leah would like everyone to know. Our hearts go out to them both, Gary and the grandchildren.

[John Virgo]

View 2 Images

John Virgo was a legendary broadcaster(Image: George Wood/Getty Images)

"JV was doing what he loved to do right up until the end, entertaining everyone. Such an important person in my life, but in our sport in general.

"An amazingly loyal friend to me, and someone you felt was sitting with you at the match when he was commentating on TV. Hard to take this one... one great person who touched so many lives and loved the game. We will never forget you, bud. RIP JV."

A statement from the BBC reads: "Some sad news to bring you. Snooker legend and BBC commentator John Virgo has died aged 79. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues."

The World Snooker Tour also paid tribute: "Everyone at World Snooker Tour is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of legendary snooker player and broadcaster John Virgo, aged 79. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, JV."

Players are also paying their respects. Former world champion Murphy said: "I first met John in 1994, filming Junior Big Break. He then went on to become a friend and colleague. I learned so much from him whilst sharing a commentary box. The voice of snooker will be sadly missed. Rest In Peace, John Virgo."

10-time Triple Crown winner Mark Selby also posted on X: "So, so sad to hear the news of the passing of John Virgo!!! Such a great guy and a huge character!! He will be greatly missed! RIP JV."

[Daily Mirror Icon]

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.