Mark Allen interrupted by loud shout from spectator at World Championship (Eurosport)

Mark Allen faced an unexpected interruption during his last-16 match against John Higgins at the World Championship when a spectator shouted out while he was attempting a crucial shot. The incident led to the unruly fan being swiftly escorted out of the Crucible, much to the relief of the players and the audience.

Despite the disruption, Allen managed to maintain his focus and eventually secured a 9-7 lead over Higgins. The Northern Irishman showcased his resilience by winning four frames in a row after initially trailing in the match. With his exceptional form over the past 18 months, Allen is poised to make a strong push for the title and potentially claim the world number one ranking.

However, Allen will need to overcome his previous struggles at the Crucible, where he has fallen short of reaching the World Championship final. Despite winning two of snooker’s Triple Crown events, the Masters and the UK Championship, Allen has yet to make a breakthrough at the prestigious tournament.

Meanwhile, Higgins, a four-time champion at the World Championship, expressed his concerns about the future of the event at the Crucible. With the current contract set to expire in 2027, there are uncertainties surrounding the venue’s continued hosting of the tournament. Higgins remains committed to the sport and the iconic venue, emphasizing the emotional significance of the Crucible in his career.

As the drama unfolds at the World Championship, Allen and Higgins are set to resume their battle on the green baize, with both players aiming to secure a spot in the quarter-finals. The unexpected interruption only added to the intensity of the match, highlighting the unpredictable nature of snooker at the highest level.