28/04/2003
Storm brews over Hurricane's 'corruption' claims
Two-time world snooker champion, Alex 'Hurricane' Higgins was again courting controversy today after claiming that the game in which he made his name is corrupt.
The Belfast player, who has regularly appeared in front of snooker disciplinary panels over the years for his own behaviour, claimed in a Sunday newspaper that professional players had thrown games for bookmakers, although he said he had never succumbed to the temptation.
However, his claim was immediately dismissed by the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA) and snooker legend Steve Davis.
A spokesperson for the WPBSA said: "The story is ludicrous. "There is no substance to it, no names are mentioned and there is no truth in the allegations."
Six-time world champion Steve Davis also dismissed the allegations: "The snooker world stopped taking notice of Alex Higgins years ago."
In the News of the World article, Higgins also claimed he was offered £20,000 in cash to throw a match against Canadian Cliff Thorburn in the Irish Masters in 1989.
Higgins is expected to be reprimanded by the WPBSA, of which he is still a member.
(MB)
The Belfast player, who has regularly appeared in front of snooker disciplinary panels over the years for his own behaviour, claimed in a Sunday newspaper that professional players had thrown games for bookmakers, although he said he had never succumbed to the temptation.
However, his claim was immediately dismissed by the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA) and snooker legend Steve Davis.
A spokesperson for the WPBSA said: "The story is ludicrous. "There is no substance to it, no names are mentioned and there is no truth in the allegations."
Six-time world champion Steve Davis also dismissed the allegations: "The snooker world stopped taking notice of Alex Higgins years ago."
In the News of the World article, Higgins also claimed he was offered £20,000 in cash to throw a match against Canadian Cliff Thorburn in the Irish Masters in 1989.
Higgins is expected to be reprimanded by the WPBSA, of which he is still a member.
(MB)
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
25 November 2024
Ergo Invests £4.5m In NI Expansion
Leading IT solutions provider, Ergo, will invest £4.5 million to expand into Northern Ireland, creating 40 high-quality jobs over the next three years.
Ergo Invests £4.5m In NI Expansion
Leading IT solutions provider, Ergo, will invest £4.5 million to expand into Northern Ireland, creating 40 high-quality jobs over the next three years.
26 July 2010
United Praise As Higgins Pots Last Shot
As a book of condolence opened for snooker star Alex Higgins at Belfast City Hall today, there has been united praise for the Donegal Road 'hero', who died on Saturday.
United Praise As Higgins Pots Last Shot
As a book of condolence opened for snooker star Alex Higgins at Belfast City Hall today, there has been united praise for the Donegal Road 'hero', who died on Saturday.
02 August 2010
Snooker Legend's 'Fame Too Much'
Twice world champion Alex Higgins' personal life was 'snookered' by his sporting success. That's according to the Dean of Belfast, Dr Houston McKelvey, who also criticised media coverage of the flamboyant Belfast-born ex-world champion's life.
Snooker Legend's 'Fame Too Much'
Twice world champion Alex Higgins' personal life was 'snookered' by his sporting success. That's according to the Dean of Belfast, Dr Houston McKelvey, who also criticised media coverage of the flamboyant Belfast-born ex-world champion's life.
05 November 2018
Mark Allen Wins International Snooker Championship
Co Antrim man Mark Allen has won the International Snooker Championship in China. He defeated Australian Neil Robinson in a 10-5 victory. He also won the Masters in January. He tweeted: "Absolutely over the moon to have won the international championship. Played great all week!! Thanks to @nr147 for being a classy opponent in defeat.
Mark Allen Wins International Snooker Championship
Co Antrim man Mark Allen has won the International Snooker Championship in China. He defeated Australian Neil Robinson in a 10-5 victory. He also won the Masters in January. He tweeted: "Absolutely over the moon to have won the international championship. Played great all week!! Thanks to @nr147 for being a classy opponent in defeat.
11 February 2009
Supporters Backing An NI Win
A victory and three points toward World Cup qualification are in the sights for Northern Ireland soccer fans arriving in San Marino today for this evening's away World Cup qualifier.
Supporters Backing An NI Win
A victory and three points toward World Cup qualification are in the sights for Northern Ireland soccer fans arriving in San Marino today for this evening's away World Cup qualifier.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.