John Higgins authored another dramatic chapter in his storied rivalry with Mark Selby, mounting a stunning comeback to win 10-8 and advance to the Tour Championship semi-finals in Manchester.

In a tense battle that mirrored last year's final, Higgins started strong before Selby, a fellow four-time world champion, seized control. With trademark tactical prowess and high breaks of 127 and 131, Selby surged to an 8-5 lead, putting the 'Wizard of Wishaw' on the brink.

But Higgins, showing the resilience that has defined his career, refused to yield. The 50-year-old Scot dug deep, reeling off five consecutive frames with a masterclass in pressure potting. Breaks of 56, 92, 74, 78, and 72 showcased his enduring class and fighting spirit, completing a remarkable turnaround to repeat his 2025 victory over Selby.

"I was delighted the way I dug in," Higgins said post-match. "You're thinking maybe it could be the same as last year... and it came true again." He now faces a formidable semi-final test against world champion Zhao Xintong on Saturday.

Zhao booked his spot with a commanding 10-4 victory over Chris Wakelin, punctuating his win with breaks of 103, 120, 134, and 108. In the other half of the draw, Australia's Neil Robertson also advanced, overcoming Barry Hawkins 10-8. The 2021 and 2022 champion will now face world number one Judd Trump in a blockbuster Friday semi-final, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to this elite event.