Snooker players and spectators at the World Grand Prix held a minute’s silence to remember the late John Virgo, who passed away earlier today, aged 79.
Standing side by side, eight players showed their respect in Hong Kong.
Virgo was an integral part of the snooker world for over five decades, first as a professional player and later as one of the sport’s most recognisable voices.
Known for his famous catchphrase of “Where’s the cue ball going?”, Virgo was most recently involved in the coverage of the Masters just last month.
Players have penned personal messages on social media, including World Grand Prix champion, Neil Robertson and former world champion Shaun Murphy.
Robertson, who is in action on Wednesday, wrote on X: “So sad to hear about the news of John Virgo’s passing. He was a great character and an amazing pundit/commentator.
“I had the pleasure of sharing the booth with him during the world championships a couple of years ago in which I got a huge appreciation for how good he was.
“We’ve lost some great people of our game just recently which is incredibly sad.”
Snooker players and spectators at the World Grand Prix held a minute’s silence to remember the late John Virgo
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Murphy, who is also a part of BBC’s coverage, wrote on Instagram: “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.”
John Virgo became a household name co-presenting the BBC snooker-themed game show Big Break
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PAVirgo turned professional in 1976 and reached a career-high world ranking of No10 during the 1979/80 season.
His greatest victory on the table was winning the 1979 UK Championship after a final against Terry Griffiths.
A statement from promotions company Snooker Legends, run by Jason Francis, announced the sad news on Wednesday morning.
It read: “Heartbreaking to share the news that we’ve lost the great ‘JV’ John Virgo this morning, he passed away in Spain.”
Former Snooker player and broadcaster John Virgo has died at the age of 79 | PAHe added: “Rosie and Brooke-Leah would like everyone to know. Our hearts go out to them both, Gary and the grandchildren. 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 sat 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.”
