Snooker: Higgins threatens Hendry's No 1 world ranking

STEPHEN HENDRY'S eight-year reign at the top of the world rankings is under threat. Both John Higgins and Ronnie O'Sullivan have closed the gap after the Regal Scottish Open.

Higgins could have moved within striking distance had he won in Aberdeen, but despite losing 9-5 to O'Sullivan in Sunday's final, he has made significant gains. Hendry had a lead of 12,000 points at the start of the season, but Higgins, who has reached the final in four of the first five ranking events, has cut the deficit to 4,220.

"There's still a possibility of catching Stephen," Higgins said. "It's up to Ronnie and I to make sure we don't slip up between now and the end of the season."