John Virgo, a renowned snooker commentator, has passed away at the age of 79. Virgo, known as the voice of the sport, made his final appearance on BBC during last month’s Masters tournament. Born in Salford, Virgo had a successful career as a player, winning the UK Championship in 1979. He passed away in Spain, where he resided, on Wednesday.

The sad news was confirmed by World Seniors Snooker chairman Jason Francis through a social media post, expressing heartfelt condolences to Virgo’s family. Virgo was beloved for his dedication to entertaining audiences until the end.

The BBC and World Snooker Tour also mourned Virgo’s passing, acknowledging his significant contributions to the sport. Fellow snooker icons like Ronnie O’Sullivan, Stephen Hendry, Shaun Murphy, and Neil Robertson paid tribute to Virgo, highlighting his impact on the game.

After retiring from playing in 1994, Virgo transitioned into a renowned commentator, known for his catchphrase “Where’s the cue ball going?” He was inducted into the World Snooker Tour Hall of Fame three years ago. Virgo’s legacy extends beyond his commentary, as he also hosted the popular show Big Break alongside Jim Davidson.

Virgo’s move to Spain in 2020 with his wife, Rosie Ries, aimed to improve his health due to a neck injury. He openly discussed his gambling addiction in a 2017 interview with Mirror Sport. Survived by his children from previous marriages, Virgo leaves behind a lasting impact on the world of snooker.

In related news, Sky has enhanced its Ultimate TV and Sky Sports bundle, now offering additional streaming services and comprehensive coverage of sports events, including the Premier League and EFL matches. Sky continues to provide extensive sports coverage, ensuring fans have access to a wide range of live sporting events.