Alex Higgins is a famous character, despite all his talents. His volatile temperament and frequent arguments made him a polarising figure. His insatiable lifestyle was noted by the national media.
Steve James defeated Alex Higgins at the 1990 World Snooker Championship in the opening round. With a score of 18-15, he defeated Ray Reardon to win the semi-final. Higgins was the first player to reach four consecutive finals. The following season, however, he was defeated by Jimmy White in the semi-finals and Davy Ferguson, in the final.
Alex Higgins was a long-term smoker and had problems with alcohol throughout his career. In 1998, he was diagnosed with throat cancer. He played snooker throughout his life and in 2006, became the first Irish player with the world title.
Alex "Hurricane” Higgins, in his prime, was a quick shotmaker. His open-necked shirt shows that he was a confident character. He was often accompanied on occasions by a pallbearer. He was also a devoted smoker. He joined over 200 other smokers to sue Benson & Hedges in 2006.
Higgins was a prolific gambler, and he had many vices throughout his career. He was also stabbed by his ex-girlfriend Holly Haise, who claimed to have stabbed him three times in the arm. The long fight with throat cancer was another obstacle in his life. He died in 2010 aged 61. His funeral was held in St Anne's Cathedral Belfast.
Alex "Hurricane” Higgins earned a reputation for being reckless and anti-heroic. He was a wild character and difficult to work with. In fact, he was banned from the popular snooker TV show Pot Black, because he frequently got into trouble with the authorities.
Higgins lived in danger and was often out of country. Lynn, his wife, cried once after he won a game. Lauren, his child, was taken to the Crucible stage when he won the World Championship. He also got into a brawl with Dennis Taylor and threatened to shoot him in the World Cup. But the police dropped his case because there wasn't enough evidence to show he had hurt anyone.
Higgins was a frequent subject of controversy due to his frequent arguments and excessive alcohol consumption. He had a cocaine habit, and had been diagnosed with throat cancer. He also had a hard time dealing with the attention he was getting. His charisma was captivating, and he did not have a manager. His talent made him a big box office draw.
Alex "Hurricane", a fast-shooter who was also gifted, was often hampered by his talent. He was rebellious and anti-hero. He beat the best players of the world and won, but he had an air that was unnerving.