John Higgins struggled to contain his emotions after losing an epic World Snooker Championship quarter-final against Mark Williams. A final-frame decider was required to separate the veteran cueists, who boast seven world titles between them, and Higgins came out on the losing side.

The writing looked to be on the wall for Higgins at 12-8 down in a first-to-13-frame match. But he put Williams under the cosh by winning four on the spin to force a decider in front of the Crucible crowd. The Wizard of Wishaw admitted that exiting the tournament after such a tight battle was tough to take, but he also took the opportunity to send an emotional message to his wife, days after her dad survived a heart attack.

"I think I’ve been one of those players who’s always had a good perspective," said Higgins, who was holding back tears. "Sometimes, when I lose in front of you guys [the crowd], it’s raw because you’re just coming off.

"I know what’s more important in my life and she’s up there [nodding to wife Denise]. I know that. I give everything 100 per cent. At the end of the day, if I lose, it’s secondary now. It’s my job and I give everything. I lost and I’m devastated right now.

"It’s what happens. I go home and the family and loved ones will pick you back up and you get on with life. I can’t be too down on myself. I’ve lost a classic game there to an unbelievable champion."

If Williams goes on to win the tournament, he will become the oldest world champion in the modern era, having turned 50 in March. The accolade currently belongs to another 'Class of 92' member, Ronnie O'Sullivan, who is also gunning for Crucible glory.

Higgins and Williams were once fierce rivals but they have now forged a strong friendship. And the Scot just about scrambled the words together to wish his Welsh counterpart well in the latter stages of the competition.

"I just told him to play well in the semi-final and well done," said Higgins. "It’s hard to put it into words because you’re numb at that point after he’s potted the last black, so you don’t have any great speeches.

"You’re walking towards him in a bit of a trance and saying well done. He’s just pipped me again, but there’s no better place to play when you win or lose, even though I’ve lost, it’s heart-breaking, but it’s just one of those things. He played amazing to go 12-8, then I came back, he’s a great champion."