Despite his many talents, Alex Higgins was a notorious character. His volatile temperament and frequent arguments made him a polarising figure. He was not a "right type", and his uninhibited lifestyle were noticed by the national news.
Steve James beat Alex Higgins in round one of the 1990 World Snooker Championship. After winning the semifinal, he beat Ray Reardon 18-15 to win his final. Higgins became the first person to qualify for four consecutive semifinals. However, the following season, he lost to Jimmy White in the semi-final 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 continued playing snooker and became the first Irish player to win the title in 2006.
Alex "Hurricane” Higgins in his prime was a speedy shotmaker. As evidenced by his open-necked shirt, he was also a very flamboyant character. A pall bearer was often with him. He was also a devoted smoker. He joined over 200 other smokers to sue Benson & Hedges in 2006.
Higgins had many vices during his career. He used alcohol, cocaine, gambling, and other drugs. Holly Haise, his ex-girlfriend, stabbed Higgins three times in the arm. His life was also complicated by a long battle with throat cancer. He died in 2010 aged 61. His funeral was held at St Anne's Cathedral Belfast.
Alex "Hurricane” Higgins was known for being reckless and anti-heroic. He was a wild character and difficult to work with. He was actually banned from the popular TV snooker show Pot Black for getting into trouble with the police.
Higgins was often out of the country, and he lived on the edge of danger. Lynn Higgins, his wife was once overcome with emotion after he won matches. Lauren, Higgins' daughter, was brought onto the Crucible stage following the World Championship. In the World Cup, he threatened to shoot Dennis Taylor earlier in the season. The police case against him was dropped as there was no evidence that he had actually hurt anyone.
Higgins was often the subject of controversy, as evidenced by his frequent arguments and frequent alcohol consumption. Higgins was a regular user of cocaine, and had been told he had throat cancer. He struggled to deal with the amount of attention he was receiving. He was frequently captivated by the crowd and had no manager. However, when his talent was on display, he was a box office draw.
Alex "Hurricane", a fast-shooter who was also gifted, was often hampered by his talent. He was a rebellious, anti-hero. He fought and won against the best players in the world, but always had an air of menace about him.