Alex Higgins, despite his many talents was a well-known character. His volatile temperament combined with frequent arguments made him an unpopular figure. His uninhibited lifestyle was noticed by the national press. He wasn't considered a "right kind"
Steve James beat Alex Higgins in round one of the 1990 World Snooker Championship. With a score of 18-15, he defeated Ray Reardon to win the semi-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.
During his career, Alex Higgins had long-term problems with alcohol and smoking. He was also diagnosed with throat cancer in 1998. However, he continued to play snooker, and in 2006 he became the first Irish snooker player to win the world title.
Alex "Hurricane” Higgins, in his prime, was a quick shotmaker. His open-necked shirt is a sign of his flamboyance. He was often accompanied by a pall bearer. He was also a keen smoker, and in 2006 he joined more 200 smokers in suing Benson & Hedges (a snooker sponsor).
During his career, Higgins had numerous vices, including alcohol, cocaine and gambling. Holly Haise, Higgins' ex-girlfriend claimed that she stabbed him three times in his arm. The long fight with throat cancer was another obstacle in his life. He was 61 years old when he died. His funeral was held at St Anne's Cathedral Belfast.
Alex "Hurricane” Higgins earned a reputation for being reckless and anti-heroic. He was an unpredictable character who made it difficult to work together. He was actually banned from the popular TV snooker show Pot Black for getting into trouble with the police.
Higgins lived in danger and was often out of country. Lynn, his wife, once wept after Higgins won a match. Lauren, his daughter, was also brought to the Crucible stage by him after he won The World Championship. He also threatened to shoot Dennis Taylor, a fellow player in the World Cup. He was not able to prove he hurt anyone, so the police investigation was dropped.
Higgins was often the topic of controversy because of his frequent arguments, and his high alcohol intake. He had a cocaine habit, and had been diagnosed with throat cancer. He also struggled with the attention he was getting. He had no manager and was often captivated by the audience. But, his talent was evident and he was a huge box office hit.
Alex "Hurricane" was a fast shotmaker who had a great talent, but was always undermined by his talent. He was both a rebellious and an anti hero. He was a fighter and won against some of the most skilled players in the world. However, he always exuded a sense of menace.