Four-time world snooker champion John Higgins has showered praise on rising talent Stan Moody following their closely contested match at the World Open in Yushan. The 19-year-old defeated the 50-year-old veteran 5-4, marking their first professional encounter and leaving Higgins impressed by Moody’s skill.

Higgins Impressed by Moody’s Shot-Making

World number 44 Stan Moody, Britain’s top-ranked teenager, continues his ascent up the rankings. Higgins, who reached his 2,000th professional match against Moody, rated the young player highly.

“Highly, very highly, with the way he hits the ball,” Higgins stated. “I went out and Stan was potting them off the lampshades, and I’m thinking to myself, ‘I feel old here.’ That’s one of the first times I really felt really old, playing that match.”

Higgins fought back but Moody sealed the victory. “It was a crazy feeling… I’ve just got to try and knock that out of me. You can’t be thinking of things like that because it’s not good for your snooker,” Higgins added.

Higgins noted Moody’s recent improvements, including a smoother cue action after previous issues. “He hits the ball as well as anyone. Honestly, I was so impressed with him… He’s definitely on the right path, without a doubt.” He also highlighted Moody’s off-table efforts, such as social media content creation.

Moody’s Rising Career

In his third season on tour, Moody has reached quarter-finals at the Wuhan Open and British Open this year. He described the win over Higgins, where he compiled six half-centuries, as his best professional victory.

“It felt amazing to beat John in China. Probably my best win on tour,” Moody said. “I’ve beaten other players like Kyren Wilson, Ding Junhui, Barry Hawkins, Ali Carter. But yeah, it felt amazing, in front of a big crowd as well.”

Moody aims to qualify for the World Championship at the Crucible for the first time, starting with a two-session match against Robbie Williams on Sunday.