John Higgins, Mark Williams and Ronnie O’Sullivan have maintained their elite status in snooker for over three decades.
With a collective age of 99, two legends of the sport clashed as Mark Williams overcame John Higgins in one of snooker’s most thrilling finishes to secure a place in the World Championship semi-finals.
“What a match. Cherish the moments with these two remarkable champions,” observed BBC commentator John Virgo, as Williams sank the final black, narrowly clinching victory on Wednesday.
The renowned ‘Class of 92’, completed by Ronnie O’Sullivan, have collectively claimed 14 world titles and continue to excel on the professional circuit.
Williams turned 50 in March. Higgins will join him thirteen days after this year’s final, while O’Sullivan reaches the milestone in December.
Yet, they continue to demonstrate that age is no barrier to success.
Could a seasoned champion lift the trophy at the Crucible this Monday?
Ronnie O’Sullivan (left) and Mark Williams during the 2006 World Championship.
Williams is now the oldest player to reach the semi-finals at the Crucible since Ray Reardon, who achieved the feat at 52 in 1985.
After falling 5-1 behind, Williams surged back to lead 12-8, only for Higgins to claw back and level the match.
“Twenty years ago, we were fierce rivals—now we nod in the practice room, astonished we’re still competing at this level,” reflected Higgins prior to the contest.
Williams shares that sentiment.
“Normally, as you age your level drops—your eyesight fades, stamina isn’t what it was, and fatigue sets in more easily,” he said. “But somehow, the three of us are still lingering on.”
Williams kept his composure as Higgins missed a difficult blue in the decider, creating a black-ball finish reminiscent of Dennis Taylor’s dramatic 1985 final victory.
With O’Sullivan set in the opposite half of the draw, a final featuring two members of the illustrious ‘Class of 92’ remains a distinct possibility.
“If one of them wins the title, possibly against a younger player, it would rate among their greatest achievements,” noted Steve Davis.
Fifteen years ago, Davis edged Mark King in a tight Crucible opener, overcame then-defending champion Higgins, but bowed out to Neil Robertson in the quarter-finals.
“The excitement was immense; perhaps I lacked the self-belief to progress further,” Davis reflected.
“Hopefully they won’t face the same hurdle—they are far more integrated with the sport’s top level than I was.”
Mark Williams and John Higgins at the 2006 China Open.
The legacy of the ‘Class of 92’ is indelible: O’Sullivan owns seven world titles, Higgins four, and Williams three.
Should Williams or O’Sullivan capture the trophy on 5 May, either will become the oldest modern-era winner—surpassing O’Sullivan’s own record at age 46.
Over thirty years ago, all three were ambitious, gifted teenagers intent on reaching the summit of the game.
Williams recalled first meeting Higgins in a 1990 final, both aged 15.
“He beat me 6-1 on live TV; he won £5,000, and I took £3,000 for runner-up,” said Williams. “Soon after, I defeated him 4-0 in the British Under-16s but only got £200—I was a week late.”
“That’s my first clear memory of John. It was usually me and O’Sullivan dueling at under-14 and under-13 events.”
Williams and Higgins have a rich Crucible rivalry, meeting there six times with Williams prevailing on five occasions, including his memorable 18-16 win in the 2018 final.
“That world final was one of my greatest matches,” Williams said ahead of their latest encounter. “Many consider it the best final played.”
A disappointed Higgins remarked: “He’s a true champion. The crowd’s energy was extraordinary—a standing ovation on entry. There’s nowhere better to play, win or lose.”
Williams is hopeful that upcoming eye surgery in June will further prolong his career.
Ken Doherty, the 1997 world champion, has faced the iconic trio throughout his career and felt the Williams-Higgins matchup was “the tie of the round”.
It did not disappoint.
“They’ve remained at the top since 1992, and continue to deliver,” Doherty said.
“With age, the game becomes more challenging; players like Stephen Hendry, Alan McManus, Peter Ebdon, and myself have discovered how tough it is to maintain that level—both emotionally and in terms of commitment.”
“Balancing family life and professional sport is tough, but their enduring hunger and passion is remarkable.”
“Having competed against them for decades, I value every contest—victories and losses alike. Matches against them always tested your own standards.”
Doherty, now part of the BBC’s broadcast team, added: “We may never witness players like these three again. Their legacy to the game, in terms of entertainment and competition, is extraordinary and ongoing.”
Shaun Murphy tipped Judd Trump, who defeated him 13-10, as favourite for the title.
He added: “The ‘Class of 92’ are among the finest ever, and it’s a privilege that fans still have the opportunity to marvel at their achievements.”
“Their continued presence is testament to their dedication and love for the sport.”
Ronnie O’Sullivan made history as the oldest modern-era world champion with his 2022 win against Judd Trump.
World number one Trump faces Williams in the semi-finals, after coming through against Luca Brecel.
Trump believes the veteran triumvirate will remain forces within the game for years to come.
“Ronnie and John were big inspirations for me as a young player,” Trump commented. “Ronnie especially was a huge figure. None appear ready to retire—they are still close to their very best.”
“When I faced Williams in the semi-finals (which Trump won 17-16 in 2022), I had never seen him play to that standard.”
“If they wish, these legends could compete well into their sixties.”
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