Barry Hearn held a telephone conversation with a tearful John Higgins today following newspaper allegations that snooker's new world number one agreed to accept money to fix frames at tournaments.
Barry Hearn held a telephone conversation with a tearful John Higgins today following newspaper allegations that snooker's new world number one agreed to accept money to fix frames at tournaments.
World snooker chief Hearn warned Higgins "his whole career is in doubt" if he is found guilty of planning to manipulate results.
Hearn has known Higgins for most of the Scot's playing career but insists their friendship is now irrelevant.
Hearn told BBC Radio Five Live: "We had a long chat this afternoon. I've outlined the process. It's nothing to do with friendship now, it's to do with getting this matter resolved, making sure the integrity of the game is preserved, making sure it's dealt with in a quick, professional manner, no sweeping under the carpet, absolutely transparent. Basically that this is in my view such a level that if the allegations are found, then obviously his whole career is in doubt.
Hearn, chairman of the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association, confirmed Higgins wept as they spoke. "Yes (he was in tears)," Hearn said.
"I don't feel sorry for anyone. As much as I would class John as a nice guy, the game is at stake here. Whatever the penalty is, it sends out a message to everyone."
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