Veteran John Higgins produced a masterclass performance to defeat fellow Scot Stephen Maguire 9-2 and secure a spot in the International Championship 2025 final in China. The 50-year-old snooker legend will face home favourite Wu Yize on Sunday in Nanjing, aiming for his third ranking title of the year.

Higgins’ Vintage Performance

Higgins, a four-time world champion, began the semi-final with a blistering start, winning the first six frames before completing the victory with three frames in the evening session. The Scottish star showcased his trademark precision, compiling century breaks of 101 and 137, and followed up with additional high breaks of 93 and 64 to seal the win.

“I am delighted with the way I played,” Higgins said. “It was pivotal to win the World Open earlier this year—it gave me that bit of self-belief in my game. It doesn’t matter who you are, when you start losing that, the game becomes so difficult.”

This marked Higgins’ 90th semi-final appearance in a ranking event, underlining his enduring class and experience on the snooker tour.

Final Showdown with Wu Yize

Higgins will now face 22-year-old Wu Yize, who defeated reigning world champion Zhao Xintong in the first semi-final. Despite Wu’s form, Higgins believes his experience will play a crucial role.

“Wu is going to be on the crest of a wave, but I’m hoping he finds the nerves tomorrow because it is his first final in China,” Higgins said.

Higgins’ composure and tactical knowledge make him a formidable opponent, and he will aim to add a third ranking title to his 2025 haul, following victories at the World Open in March and the Tour Championship in April.

Higgins’ Career Highlights

• Four-time World Snooker Champion
• 33 ranking event wins
• Recent 2025 titles: World Open, Tour Championship
• Veteran of the sport with decades of experience

Higgins’ semi-final win over Maguire reinforced his status as one of snooker’s all-time greats, blending precision, experience, and mental toughness. Fans in China and around the world will eagerly anticipate the final showdown against Wu Yize, as the young Chinese star seeks to claim his first major ranking title.