Snooker legend John Virgo dies aged 79; Virgo’s most notable victory was when he defeated Terry Griffiths in the 1979 British Championship final; he was also a co-host of the Big Break TV show

Snooker legend John Vergo dies aged 79

World Snooker has announced that former player and broadcaster John Vergo has died aged 79.

Virgo’s most notable victory came in the 1979 British Championship final, defeating Terry Griffiths.

Other important career wins include the 1980 Bombay International, the 1980 Pontins Pro and the 1984 Professional Snooker League.

John Virgo is famous for his career and as a broadcaster.

Virgo enjoyed a long and storied career that included British Championship triumphs, but he is perhaps best known for his work as a broadcaster.

As a commentator, he was a well-known figure in BBC snooker coverage, famous for his catchphrase “Where did the cue ball go?”

Virgo became a household name for his role on the 1990s snooker show Big Break and became a regular on the show circuit with his prolific trick shots.

WST wrote in a statement: “Everyone at the World Snooker Tour is deeply saddened by the news of the passing of legendary snooker player and broadcaster John Virgo, aged 79.”

“Our hearts go out to his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, JV.”

World Senior Snooker chairman Jason Francis announced the “heartbreaking” news of Virgo’s death in Spain in a post on X’s Snooker Legends account.

“JV kept doing what he loved until the end, entertaining everyone,” he said. “He was such an important person in my life and an important figure in our sport.

“He was a very loyal friend to me and when he was on TV you felt like he was sitting with you.

“It’s hard to accept this…a great man who touched so many lives and loved the game. We will never forget you man. RIP JV.”

The sport is paying homage to Virgo.

Virgo played professionally for 18 years and reached the semi-finals of the World Championship in 1979, while also winning the British Championship.

He retired in 1994 and was later inducted into the World Snooker Tour Hall of Fame for his success in billiards and his work as an announcer.

News of his death prompted tributes to the man who left an indelible mark.

Seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan wrote: “After the game I learned of JV’s passing. Love Rossi, Brooke and Gary. I loved spending time with such a great partner and I’m really sad.”

Four-time world champion Mark Selby posted on

Neil Robertson, 2010 World Championship Champion, said: “I am very sad to hear of the passing of John Virgo. He was a great character and a fantastic pundit/commentator.

“I had the pleasure of sharing the booth with him during the World Championships a few years ago and I was very impressed with how well he performed.”