John Higgins believes move away from Crucible is “inevitable” as he prepares for 30th World Championship appearance

John Higgins, the four-time World Snooker Champion, is gearing up for his 30th appearance at the prestigious World Championship. However, as the tournament approaches, Higgins believes a move away from the iconic Crucible Theatre in Sheffield is “inevitable.”

The Crucible has been the home of the World Championship since 1977, but with the current agreement set to expire in 2027, discussions about relocating the event have been gaining momentum. Higgins, who has never missed the tournament since his debut in 1995, expressed his sentiments about the potential move, acknowledging the changing landscape of the snooker world.

Despite his success at the Crucible, with victories in 1998, 2007, 2009, and 2011, Higgins recognizes the sentimental value of the venue for players who have yet to lift the trophy on its hallowed grounds. The speculation surrounding possible new locations for the World Championship includes Saudi Arabia, China, or a larger venue in the UK, as the demand for tickets at the Crucible often exceeds supply due to its limited capacity.

As Higgins prepares to kick off his 2024 title bid against Jamie Jones, he remains focused and optimistic about his game. The 48-year-old Scot is eager to immerse himself in the tournament and give it his all, emphasizing his pride in still competing at the highest level after three decades in the sport.

With the future of the World Championship venue up in the air, snooker fans around the world will be watching closely to see where the prestigious event will be held in the years to come.