Higgins claims 'conscience is 100% clear'
Sunday, 2 May 2010 18:44
John Higgins has issued a statement declaring he has 'never been involved in any form of snooker match-fixing' and that his 'conscience is 100% clear'.
Higgins and his manager Pat Mooney were filmed by the News of the World newspaper, allegedly agreeing to accept £261,000 in return for arranging the outcome of four frames in matches to be played later this year.
Higgins statement reads: 'I have never been involved in any form of snooker match-fixing. In my 18 years playing professional snooker I have never deliberately missed a shot, never mind intentionally lost a frame or a match.
'In all honestly I became very worried at the way the conversation developed in Kiev. When it was suggested that I throw frames in return for large sums of money, I was really spooked. I just wanted to get out of the hotel and onto the plane home.
'I didn't know if this was the Russian Mafia or who we were dealing with. At that stage I felt the best course of action was just to play along with these guys and get out of Russia.
'Those who know me are aware of my love for snooker and that I would never do anything to damage the integrity of the sport I love. My conscience is 100% clear.'
- Fergal O'Brien: Gary Moran speaks to Fergal O'Brien about match-fixing allegations that have led to the suspension of world number one John Higgins.
- Crucible Reaction: Phil Yeats tells Gary Moran about the reaction at The Crucible to the news of John Higgins suspension which overshadowed the start of the World Championship Final.
