Alex Higgins, despite his many talents was a well-known character. His volatile temperament combined with frequent arguments made him an unpopular figure. His insatiable lifestyle was noted by the national media.
Steve James defeated Alex Higgins during the 1990 World Snooker Championship. After winning the semi-final, he won the final by a score of 18-15 against Ray Reardon. Higgins was the first player to reach four consecutive finals. The following season, however, he was defeated by Jimmy White in the semi-finals and Davy Ferguson, in the final.
Alex Higgins experienced long-term issues with smoking and alcohol during his career. 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 speedy shotmaker. He was also a flamboyant character, as evidenced by his open-necked shirt. A pall bearer was often with him. He was also a ardent smoker. He joined more than 200 other smokers in suing Benson & Hedges.
Higgins abused alcohol, drugs, and gambling during his career. Holly Haise was his ex-girlfriend and stabbed Higgins in the arm three times. A long battle with throat cancer complicated his life. He was 61 years old when he died. His funeral was at St Anne's Cathedral in Belfast.
Alex "Hurricane” Higgins earned a reputation for being reckless and anti-heroic. He was a wild character and difficult to work with. Because he often got into trouble with authorities, he was expelled from the popular snooker TV program Pot Black.
Higgins was often out of the country, and he lived on the edge of danger. His wife, Lynn, once cried after he won a match, and his daughter, Lauren, was brought on to the Crucible stage after he won the World Championship. He threatened to shoot Dennis Taylor in the World Cup earlier in that season, and was also involved in an altercation. He was not able to prove he hurt anyone, so the police investigation was dropped.
Higgins was an often controversial figure, as shown by his frequent arguments or alcohol consumption. He had a cocaine habit, and had been diagnosed with throat cancer. He struggled to deal with the amount of attention he was receiving. His charisma was captivating, and he did not have a manager. He was an instant hit at the box office when his talents were on display.
Alex "Hurricane", who was a fast shootmaker, had great talent, but was always thwarted by his talent. He was a rebel and an anti hero. He beat the best players of the world and won, but he had an air that was unnerving.