Oct. 2023 UPDATED
Click name for expanded player biography including famous games.
Joe Davis (1901-1978)
Years Active: 1919-1964
Notable Victories: World Snooker Champion (1927-1946)
Bio: Pioneer of the modern game, Davis was the first World Snooker Champion and held the title for 20 consecutive years.
Ray Reardon (born 1932)
Years Active: 1960s-1990s
Notable Victories: World Snooker Champion (6 times)
Bio: Known as “Dracula” because of his sharp-toothed grin, the Welshman dominated snooker during the 70s.
Steve Davis (born 1957)
Years Active: 1978-2016
Notable Victories: World Snooker Champion (6 times)
Bio: Davis ruled the snooker world in the 80s and was the sport’s first millionaire.
Alex Higgins (1949-2010)
Years Active: 1968-1997
Notable Victories: World Snooker Champion (2 times)
Bio: Known as “The Hurricane,” the Northern Irishman was celebrated for his fast, attacking style.
Ronnie O’Sullivan (born 1975)
Years Active: 1992-present
Notable Victories: World Snooker Champion (6 times)
Bio: Often called the most talented snooker player ever, “The Rocket” is known for his rapid playing style and natural flair.
Stephen Hendry (born 1969)
Years Active: 1985-2012, 2020-present
Notable Victories: World Snooker Champion (7 times)
Bio: The Scottish player is one of the most successful in the World Championship era with seven titles.
John Higgins (born 1975)
Years Active: 1992-present
Notable Victories: World Snooker Champion (4 times)
Bio: The “Wizard of Wishaw” is known for his tactical acumen and has consistently been one of the world’s top players.
Mark Williams (born 1975)
Years Active: 1992-present
Notable Victories: World Snooker Champion (3 times)
Bio: Another member of the class of ’92, Williams is celebrated for his relaxed potting style and sharp tactical mind.
Jimmy White (born 1962)
Years Active: 1980-present
Notable Victories: UK Championship, Masters
Bio: “The Whirlwind” is beloved by fans around the world and is famously the best player never to have won the World Championship, having been a finalist six times.
Fred Davis (1913-1998)
Years Active: 1929-1993
Notable Victories: English Professional Championship (3 times)
Bio: Brother of Joe Davis, Fred had a career spanning eight decades and was World Championship runner-up on three occasions.
Remember, the world of snooker is filled with exceptional talent, and while these ten players have made significant marks, there are countless others with incredible achievements and captivating stories.
