‘Quite incredible!’ – John Higgins nearly makes 167 break despite spectators walking around during break

John Higgins nearly made history on Monday on the first day of the Riyadh Season Snooker Masters during his second round clash with Mark Williams.

Higgins started the opening frame in fine mettle and was quickly in the reds and a 147 was on the cards.

Of course, because this was in the Riyadh Season Snooker Masters that meant that the golden ball was in play, meaning that Higgins had the chance to become the first player ever to land a 167, with the golden ball worth an additional 20 points.

Higgins had to put up with a few distractions during his break, most notably when some spectators were walking around whilst he was trying to line-up a shot.

This was before the penultimate black and Higgins, who must be used to the utmost silence in such a situation, was laughing, clearly bemused at what was happening at such a pivotal moment.

Nevertheless he kept his concentration to land a tricky black but heartbreak soon followed when the white finished just next to the yellow. It wasn’t a touching ball situation but Higgins had a near-impossible shot to make to continue the break and he was unable to do so.

The wait goes on for the first player to reach the 167 mark and pot the golden ball…