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Age but a number as John Higgins claims World Open title

John Higgins has claimed his first ranking title since 2021
John Higgins has claimed his first ranking title since 2021

John Higgins has become the oldest winner of a ranking tournament in 43 years after claiming the World Open crown.

The Scot, who turns 50 in May, beat Joe O'Connor 10-6 in the final in Yushan, China to claim his first title since 2021.

O'Connor, the 29-year-old from Leicester, trailed 9-4 going into the final session but pulled two frames back, the second with a fine clearance including a nerveless double on the green.

But Higgins got over the line with a break of 100 to claim the €212,000 (£175,000) winner's prize.

He is the second-oldest winner of a ranking event after Ray Reardon, who was 50 when he won the 1982 Professional Players' Tournament.

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