Steve Davis fights back tears at Crucible over moving tribute to snooker legend John Virgo

Lewis Henderson
Sat, 18 Apr 2026 15:12:27 +0000

Steve Davis had to fight back tears during a tribute to snooker legend John Virgo at the Crucible.

Six-time world champion Davis was visibly moved as those present joined in a minute's applause for the beloved commentator.

Virgo, who passed away in February at 79, had been a cherished figure in the sport for decades.

The tribute marked a poignant start to the tournament, with presenter Hazel Irvine leading proceedings and inviting both snooker legends and fans alike to participate in remembering their "dear friend and colleague".

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Born in Salford, Virgo carved out a distinguished career in the sport, with his 1979 UK Championship victory representing the pinnacle of his playing achievements.

Yet it was behind the microphone where he truly made his mark, becoming an integral part of the BBC's snooker coverage from 1985 onwards.

His distinctive voice earned him the affectionate title of the "voice of snooker," while his trademark exclamation: "Where's the cue ball going?" became synonymous with televised snooker.

Beyond commentary, Virgo entertained millions through the 1990s game show Big Break and remained a popular fixture on the exhibition circuit, delighting audiences with his impressive repertoire of trick shots.

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Irvine said: "We would first like to pay tribute to our dear friend and colleague John Virgo, who passed away in February this year. It was a tremendous shock to all of us.

"John was universally loved by everyone in this sport and well beyond it, too. John really was the Voice of Snooker.

"JV played in the first-ever Crucible in 1977. Winning the UK title in 1979 was the zenith of his playing career.

"But John's humour endeared him to millions on quiz show Big Break, and as a commentator from 1985 onwards, his wit and wisdom shone through."

Irvine continued: "He was a master story-teller, a superb professional, who conveyed the drama and the tension, the fun and emotion of this great sport and unmistakeable voice. He really is irreplaceable.

"So, whilst we are all desperately sad, we are determined to celebrate this great man's life and work in this sport.

"So, in the Crucible and beyond, we would invite those who can to please stand and offer John a minute's applause."

Fellow snooker greats Jimmy White and Alan McManus also stood among those honouring Virgo's memory.

The Crucible tribute followed a memorial service held two days prior at Sheffield Cathedral, organised by 1997 world champion Ken Doherty alongside master of ceremonies Rob Walker.

The cathedral event welcomed 600 attendees on a first-come, first-served basis.

Virgo's funeral had taken place earlier, on February 14 in Spain.

Speaking at the memorial service, Davis reflected on the profound loss felt throughout the snooker community.

He said: "We're going to miss him dearly, a great commentator but a good friend to us all, he made you feel very special."