The snooker world is in mourning following the death of Terry Griffiths, a former world champion and one of the sport’s most respected figures, at the age of 77. Griffiths, who was celebrated for both his achievements on the table and his contributions as a coach and commentator, passed away after a long battle with dementia.
Griffiths turned professional in 1978 and achieved instant stardom by winning the World Snooker Championship on his first attempt in 1979. At 31, he defeated Dennis Taylor in the final, a victory that marked the start of an illustrious career. Despite starting his professional journey relatively late, his triumph was a testament to his talent, determination, and tactical brilliance. During the snooker boom of the 1980s, Griffiths became a household name alongside contemporaries like Steve Davis, Alex Higgins, and Jimmy White. Known for his calm and measured style, he climbed to No. 3 in the world rankings and earned a place among the sport’s legends.
In addition to his world championship victory, Griffiths secured two other major titles to complete snooker’s coveted triple crown. He won the Masters in 1980 and the UK Championship in 1982, cementing his status as one of the sport’s all-time greats. Though less flamboyant than some of his rivals, his methodical approach and ability to handle pressure made him a formidable opponent.
After retiring from professional play in 1997, Griffiths transitioned to coaching, where he had an equally profound impact. He worked with a host of top players, including Stephen Hendry, Mark Williams, Mark Allen, and Ding Junhui. His keen understanding of the game and straightforward advice earned him admiration and gratitude from those he mentored. Griffiths also became a beloved television commentator, where his insights and dry sense of humor endeared him to fans.
His contributions to snooker were recognized beyond the table. In 2007, he was awarded an OBE for his services to the sport. Griffiths’s legacy extends not only through his own achievements but also through the success of the players he guided and inspired.
Griffiths’s family confirmed his passing in an emotional statement, revealing that he had died peacefully in his hometown of Llanelli, Wales, surrounded by loved ones. His son, Wayne, expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from the snooker community, noting how much pride his father took in representing Llanelli throughout his career.
Tributes poured in from across the snooker world. Seven-time world champion Stephen Hendry described Griffiths as “a great man and a great player,” praising his humor, honesty, and encyclopedic knowledge of the game. Mark Williams, a three-time world champion, hailed Griffiths as a mentor, coach, friend, and legend. Meanwhile, Mark Allen expressed his heartbreak, describing Griffiths as a figure who shaped both his career and life.
Griffiths often reflected on the remarkable journey that took him from his humble beginnings in Llanelli to the pinnacle of the snooker world. Before turning professional, he worked as a miner, bus conductor, and postal worker, a background that made his rise to prominence even more extraordinary. Recalling his world championship victory, he spoke with characteristic humility, admitting he had entered the tournament with no expectations and had simply hoped to enjoy the experience.
Despite the pressures of competition, Griffiths’s victory in 1979 remains a defining moment in snooker history. His triumph was built on grit and determination, exemplified by a thrilling win over Alex Higgins in the semi-finals and a commanding performance against Dennis Taylor in the final. The achievement not only transformed his life but also left an indelible mark on the sport.
Griffiths’s passing marks the end of an era for snooker, but his influence and legacy endure. As a champion, mentor, and ambassador for the game, he will be remembered as one of its true greats.
