John Higgins and Judd Trump expect another classic in their dramatic rivalry

10/07/2023 05:43 AM

‘Every time I play John, it just seems to be full of drama,’ says Judd Trump of John Higgins, and both men are expecting more of the same when they meet again on Saturday in the English Open semi-finals.

The pair have had a number of memorable tussles over the years, none more so than the two World Championship finals they have played together.

Higgins beat a young, gung-ho Trump in the 2011 Crucible final, before the Ace came of age to produce one of the finest performances ever and win the 2019 final in Sheffield, leaving the Wizard in his wake.

At 48 years old, Higgins has seen it all, but clashing with Trump is something that still gets the juices flowing and he can’t wait for the challenge this weekend.

‘I love these occasions, absolutely love it, especially playing Judd,’ said the four-time world champion.

‘He's been a breath of fresh air for our game for so many years. He brings out the best in me and I think I bring the best out of him.

‘He produced probably the best ever performance anyone's ever produced against me in the World Championship final.

‘It wasn't great for two days when I was sat glued into my chair! But you obviously sat in awe, because you know how incredibly difficult this game can be sometimes. You sat there thinking it was a special performance. He's got that in his locker.

‘We've had battles in big, big tournaments and I'm sure this semi-final will be the same.’

The two men have already produced a dramatic, close contest this season as Trump won the last two frames to pip Higgins 6-5 in the European Masters semi-finals in August.