John Virgo was born on March 3, 1946 in Salford, England. He discovered his love for snooker at a young age, spending hours practicing and perfecting his skills. He showed great promise from an early age, and it was clear that he had a natural talent for the game.
Virgo began his professional snooker career at the age of thirty, a relatively late start compared to many of his peers. Despite his late start, he quickly made a name for himself in the snooker world, earning the nickname "Mr. Perfection" for his precise and strategic playing style.
In 1979, Virgo won the United Kingdom Championship, marking the beginning of his successful career. He followed this up with victories in the Bombay International Championship in 1980, and the Pontins Professional and Professional Snooker League championships in 1980 and 1984, respectively. His skill and dedication to the game made him a formidable opponent on the snooker circuit.
Aside from his success as a professional snooker player, Virgo also had a second career as a television personality. He became a familiar face to snooker fans around the world as the host of the BBC's snooker coverage. He also co-presented a popular snooker game show called Big Break, which further solidified his status as a household name in the world of snooker.
Virgo's personal life has been marked by ups and downs. He was married twice, with his first marriage resulting in a son named Gary, and his second marriage producing a daughter named Brook. His marriage to his second wife, Avril, ended in divorce in the early 1990s. He later married Rosie Ries, with whom he found lasting happiness.
Virgo's impact on the world of snooker is undeniable. His skill and passion for the game inspired a new generation of players, and his television work helped popularize snooker around the world. In 2011, he published a book about fellow snooker player Alex Higgins, showcasing his deep knowledge and love for the game.
John Virgo's dedication to the game of snooker and his charismatic personality have left a lasting impact on the sport. He will always be remembered as a true legend in the world of snooker.