The snooker world gathered in Sheffield for a memorial service honoring John Virgo, who passed away aged 79 in February. Stars including seven-time world champion Stephen Hendry, Steve Davis, and Dennis Taylor joined current players like Shaun Murphy and Neil Robertson at Sheffield Cathedral. Virgo's widow, Rosie Ries, and their children also attended the service held ahead of this year's World Championship.

Virgo reached the World Championship semi-finals at the Crucible in 1979 during his 18-year playing career. After retiring as a player, he became a BBC commentator in 1994 and co-hosted the popular Big Break show with Jim Davidson from 1991 to 2002. His final BBC commentary came just 17 days before his death during the 2026 Masters final.

Former world champion Ken Doherty remembered Virgo as a "wonderful character" whose voice was "synonymous with snooker." Fellow commentator John Parrot praised him as a "brilliant broadcaster and tremendous commentator, but a great friend." Fan Jim Fitzpatrick captured the sentiment, describing Virgo as "funny" and someone "who didn't take sport too seriously," highlighting his unique contribution to the sport's culture.