John Higgins Ends Title Drought with 2025 World Open Victory
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John Higgins Triumphs at 2025 World Open, Ending Ranking Title Drought
Four-time world champion John Higgins has ended a four-year ranking title drought with a commanding 10-6 victory over Joe O'Connor in the 2025 World Open final at the Yushan Sport Centre in China. The 49-year-old Scot pocketed the £175,000 top prize and secured an invitation to next season's Champion of Champions event.
A Tense Battle
Despite being the heavy favorite, there were questions about whether Higgins could handle the pressure, having lost his last five ranking finals, including three where he squandered significant leads. However, the Wizard of Wishaw held his nerve, winning a lengthy opening frame on the black before taking a 3-0 lead.
Higgins wasn't at his absolute best but scored heavily at crucial moments to establish a comfortable 6-2 cushion by the end of the afternoon session. When play resumed, a break of 68 helped Higgins extend his lead to 7-2.
O'Connor Fights Back
The Englishman took advantage of some signs of tension from Higgins, winning the next two frames to reduce his arrears to 7-4. The tide could have turned if O'Connor had won the last frame before the mid-session interval, but Higgins steadied himself with a run of 57, following up with a 94 to move within one frame of victory.
To his credit, the former Scottish Open runner-up kept fighting, taking the 14th and 15th frames to stay in contention. However, Higgins sealed his long-awaited success with the final's only century break, increasing his career tally of ranking titles to 32.
Disappointment for O'Connor
While it was a disappointing end to the week for O'Connor, who continues to chase his maiden professional title, the Leicester potter can take heart from his strong performances against top players like Judd Trump and Shaun Murphy. His recent form bodes well for the upcoming World Championship.
Higgins Eyes More Success
John Higgins will be a busy man before returning to the Crucible, set to compete in the World Grand Prix, Players Championship, and Tour Championship. With renewed confidence in his ability to close out tournaments, the soon-to-be 50-year-old will be a formidable opponent in the weeks ahead.
Key Takeaways:
- John Higgins wins the 2025 World Open, his first ranking title in four years
- The Scot defeated Joe O'Connor 10-6 in the final, withstanding a late fightback
- Higgins collects £175,000 and earns a spot in next season's Champion of Champions
- O'Connor, still seeking his first professional title, can take positives from his recent form
- With renewed confidence, Higgins will be a dangerous competitor in upcoming events
