White issues apology for ‘unacceptable’ language as X-rated rant heard on air

Snooker legend Jimmy White was heard swearing live on air as he commentated for Eurosport on the World Championship semi-final between Ronnie O’Sullivan and John Higgins

Jimmy White has apologised for his “unacceptable” language after an X-rated rant was aired live to television viewers.

White, 59, has been working as a pundit and commentator for Eurosport at the World Snooker Championship, and on Friday was on duty for the semi-final between Ronnie O’Sullivan and John Higgins. The match had just turned 5-5 when White slipped up, clearly not realising he was live.

“I can’t work under these f***ing conditions,” he ranted. It wasn’t clear what conditions he was referring too, but the comment was heard loud and clear.

His blip didn’t go unnoticed on social media, with the @OOCSnooker account posting a clip of the footage, along with the line: “Jimmy you’re still on air.” The tweet was accompanied with a laughing emoji, and snooker fans did indeed seem to see the the funny side.

On Friday night, White himself took to Twitter to say sorry for his actions. And there’s been no suggestion the man famously dubbed ‘The Whirlwind’ will be sanctioned for his mistake.

“Evening all,” he wrote. “I wanted to offer my sincerest apologies for my unacceptable language earlier today and for any offence caused. Hope this didn’t affect anyone’s enjoyment of the coverage and can continue to look forward to an exciting last few days.”

White is one of the most popular figures in the sport, and widely considered as the greatest player never to have become world champion. And sure enough, he received plenty of support from fans after his climbdown.

@Pav_91 replied: “Don’t be sorry Jimmy, we have all done and said stuff in life , anyone saying otherwise is lying,” while @marjayhan added: “On the contrary it gave us all a chuckle. You are amazing Jimmy.”

Many also speculated about the Eurosport conditions, implying that White losing his temper could be justified. @gspeirs1 asked: “Jimmy why is the Eurosport studio in someone’s garage?” before adding it “looked terrible.”

@MAMentoring echoed similar sentiments, writing: “I think it’s actually right next to the practice room. Trying to make the best of an area I think.”

Fans who stayed tuned in after White’s comments were treated to a superb display of snooker from O’Sullivan, who went into the mid-session interval at 6-6. From there, he put his foot on the gas with some scintillating play, reeling off four straight frames to open up a 10-6 overnight lead.

Should ‘The Rocket’ prevail in Sheffield, he will equal Stephen Hendry’s record of seven world titles. In the other final four match, Judd Trump leads Mark Williams 13-11.