Alex Higgins was an infamous character despite his many talents. His volatile temperament and frequent arguments made Higgins polarizing. His uninhibited lifestyle was noticed by the national press. He wasn't considered a "right kind"
Steve James beat Alex Higgins in round one of the 1990 World Snooker Championship. After winning the semi final, he beat Ray Reardon by 18-15 to win the final. Higgins became first player to make it to 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. In 1998, he was also diagnosed by throat cancer. He still played snooker and won the 2006 world title.
Alex "Hurricane” Higgins in his prime was a speedy shotmaker. As evidenced by his open-necked shirt, he was also a very flamboyant character. A pall bearer was often with him. He was also a keen smoker, and in 2006 he joined more 200 smokers in suing Benson & Hedges (a snooker sponsor).
Higgins was a prolific gambler, and he had many vices throughout his career. He was also stabbed by his ex-girlfriend Holly Haise, who claimed to have stabbed him three times in the arm. His life was further complicated by his long battle against throat cancer. He died at the age of 61 in 2010. His funeral was held in St Anne's Cathedral Belfast.
Alex "Hurricane” Higgins earned a reputation for being reckless and anti-heroic. He was always a wild character, and his volatile temperament made him difficult to work with. In fact, he was banned from the popular snooker TV show Pot Black, because he frequently got into trouble with the authorities.
Higgins was always out of town and lived on the edge. Lynn Higgins, his wife was once overcome with emotion after he won matches. Lauren, Higgins' daughter, was brought onto the Crucible stage following the World Championship. He threatened to shoot Dennis Taylor in the World Cup earlier in that season, and was also involved in an altercation. But, the police did not pursue him because there was no evidence he ever hurt anyone.
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 had difficulty coping with the constant attention. He was frequently captivated by the crowd and had no manager. His talent proved to be a draw for the box office.
Alex "Hurricane", also known as Alex, was a quick shotmaker with a tremendous talent but was constantly undermined by his talent. He was an anti-hero and a rebel. He fought and won against the best players in the world, but always had an air of menace about him.