World Snooker Championship: Higgins vs Murphy Semi-Final Begins

The wait is over. The 2024 World Snooker Championship semi-finals have kicked off at the Crucible Theatre, and the opening clash pits four-time champion John Higgins against 2015 winner Shaun Murphy. It’s a matchup of two of the tour’s most experienced tacticians, and fans are already calling it the must-watch tie of the round.

Meet the Semi-Finalists: Higgins vs Murphy

Before the first frame is even potted, here’s the key context you need for the World Championship Higgins Murphy showdown:

• John Higgins: The 48-year-old Scottish icon is chasing a record-equalling fifth World Championship title. He’s won 4 titles (1998, 2007, 2009, 2011) and reached 8 finals total, more than any other active player.
• Shaun Murphy: The 41-year-old Englishman lifted the trophy in 2015, and has reached 3 semi-finals since. Known for his precise long potting and break-building, he’s a dangerous underdog when in form.
• Head-to-Head: Higgins leads their professional meetings 18-12, but Murphy won their last Crucible clash 13-11 in the 2022 quarter-finals.

How to Watch the Higgins vs Murphy Semi-Final

Don’t miss a single frame of the action. Here’s your complete viewing guide:

1. UK Viewers: Free-to-air coverage is available on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer, with additional coverage on Eurosport and discovery+.
2. Global Streaming: WST Play offers live, ad-free coverage for international viewers, with commentary in 8 languages.
3. Live Updates: Follow our real-time text commentary below, or track scores via the official WST app and social media channels.

Key Storylines to Follow

Higgins’ Historic Hunt

If Higgins lifts the trophy, he’ll become the oldest World Champion since Ray Reardon won in 1978 at age 45. He’s also chasing a fifth title, which would tie him with Steve Davis and Mark Selby, and move him one behind Stephen Hendry’s record of 7.

Murphy’s Redemption Run

Murphy has had a mixed 2024 season, with early exits in 3 of the 4 Triple Crown events. But he found his form in the quarter-finals, beating Neil Robertson 13-10 to book his semi-final spot. A win here would mark his first final since 2021.

Crucible Tactical Battle

Both players are masters of safety play, so expect long tactical exchanges early in frames. Higgins averages 92.4 in break-building this tournament, while Murphy has made 12 century breaks so far — the second-most of any player.

Live Follow: Real-Time Updates

We’ll be updating scores, key moments, and frame-by-frame analysis below. Bookmark this page and refresh every 10 minutes for the latest:

(Live updates will load automatically on match day. Follow us on Twitter @SnookerNews for instant alerts.)

Who Will Win? Share Your Predictions

Higgins is the bookmakers’ slight favorite at 11/8, with Murphy at 6/4. Will the veteran Scottish star edge it, or can Murphy pull off an upset? Let us know in the comments below.

The World Championship Higgins Murphy semi-final is set to be a classic. Grab your snacks, tune in, and follow along with us for every key moment.