Mark Williams shares hilarious John Higgins throwback photo but bemused fans are all left asking the same question

 The Welsh Potting Machine and Wizard of Wishaw Higgins have been pals and rivals for more than 30 years

Mark Williams and John Higgins will do battle at the Crucible in their 50th year

Mark Williams has shared a hilarious picture of him and John Higgins on the eve of their World Championship showdown.

The Welsh Potting Machine, 50, and 49-year-old Wizard of Wishaw Higgins both burst onto the scene as part of snooker's iconic Class of 92 - alongside Ronnie O'Sullivan.

And more than 30 years on, they've shown that they've lost none of their talent - as both secured a spot in the quarter-finals of the World Championship at the Crucible.

Williams took to social media to post a hilarious picture of the two as youngsters early in their career, boasting fresh-faces and full heads of hair.

But that wasn't what caught the eye of fans, or Williams, who were left questioning if Williams had grown or Higgins had shrunk since the image was taken.

Posting on his X account, Williams joked: "Just getting ready for the world seniors quarter finals in the morning," with the hashtag 'he used to be taller than me.'

The photo, a screenshot from Eurosport snooker coverage from the early 90s, shows Higgins - complete with an impressive mop of black hair - seemingly towering over his rival.

However in a picture taken in 2025 Williams is now comfortably taller than his Scottish rival, with fans trying to work out if the volume of Higgins hair was why he appeared taller.

One posted: "It can't just be down to Higgins hair that's the difference,' and another said: "John is well taller than you there, what the hell happened?!"

John Higgins (left) and Mark Williams being interviewed as youngsters more than 30 years ago

A third added: "Is John standing on a box in that pic or did you do some late growing?!"

The comments were also full of well-wishers, delighted at the opportunity to see two of the greatest players of all-time going head-to-head on the biggest of stages.

A fan said: "What a pair of legends. Need to enjoy every minute of the three of you guys while we can. QF with you and John gonna be emotional."

Another commented: "Absolute gold to see you guys in the next next round. To hear you both speak so well of each other is awesome! All the best to you both and enjoy every second out there."