O'Sullivan on the Three Masters: Higgins is the best, he is a role model for young people, he has been labeled a "gentleman".
Instead of leaving the Belfast Waterfront Hall after reaching the round of 16 at the Northern Ireland Tournament, O'Sullivan was a guest at Eurosport Live to explain the live events and talk about some of his views on the players' performances on and off the field.
Higgins was also praised by O'Sullivan after renowned sports journalist Desmond considered Higgins to be the "most considerate and gentle" of all retired and active players (none). Even if he loses in the final of a major event, he will habitually give the other party the most sincere congratulations. He has lost consecutively to Selby, Mark Williams and Trump in the 2017-19 World Championship finals, and after the game, he hugged and smiled at all three of them. Compared to the refusal of some players to shake hands or even leave the stadium directly after losing the final, it is really a world of difference.
Despite the 8-6 final of the Northern Ireland Open with three match points in hand, Higgins still stepped forward to shake hands with him and whispered congratulations. Higgins has been playing professionally for 30 years, and this gentlemanly style has become a label in the eyes of the outside world. Now many young players have great respect for him.
Just like his steady control of the mother ball, his personality and performance on the field are equally steady. Whether leading or behind, complex or simple, Higgins always has a serious expression of frowning, presenting the audience and opponents with a face that always maintains a smile and kindness. The same goes for his style of language, and we've never seen him complain anywhere on or off the pitch.
O'Sullivan said: "Of our 75 three masters, Higgins is the best-tempered, he doesn't have a star shelf. Only he can play some snooker that will delight both opponents and spectators. ”
Mark Williams and O'Sullivan have both "fought" on the field of fame and status to do some unusual actions such as taking off their shirts and shoes after winning the championship, as well as some excessive words, but Higgins, as a superstar of the same level, has never done anything to damage his image.