Former world snooker champion Terry Griffiths has passed away at the age of 77 after a battle with dementia. Griffiths won the 1979 Crucible title and also the Masters and the UK Championship, completing snooker’s ‘triple crown’. He became a respected coach, inspiring players like Stephen Hendry, Mark Williams, and Mark Allen. Griffiths’ son Wayne announced his passing on Facebook, stating that he passed away peacefully in his hometown in South Wales.
Griffiths had a successful career in snooker, reaching at least the quarter-finals of the World Championship for nine consecutive years and making a final appearance in 1988. He retired in 1997 after a first-round defeat to Mark Williams. Griffiths was married to Annette and had two sons, Wayne and Darren. He was a proud Welshman and a beloved figure in the snooker community, known for his slow and methodical style of play.
Despite not being as flamboyant as some of his rivals, Griffiths was able to draw on his talent to achieve success in the sport. Winning the world championship in 1979 as a qualifier was a turning point in his career, as it propelled him to fame and success. Griffiths’ underdog story resonated with fans and helped elevate snooker’s popularity, moving it from small snooker halls to mainstream TV. He was known for his cheerful persona and stylish appearance, immortalized in the song ‘Snooker Loopy’.
Griffiths was inspired by fellow Welshman Ray Reardon and turned professional to become a key figure in the era that saw snooker rise to prominence as a popular sport. While not a consistent tournament winner, he achieved success in prestigious events like the Masters and the UK Championship, earning his place as one of only 11 players to complete snooker’s Triple Crown. Griffiths was also a fixture in snooker commentary and coaching, working with top players like Stephen Hendry and Mark Williams.
In his later years, Griffiths remained involved in the snooker community, coaching players and serving as director of the South West Snooker Academy. He received an OBE in 2009 for his contributions to the sport. Griffiths’ legacy as a player, coach, and ambassador for snooker lives on, as he was admired and respected by fans and players alike. His passing is a loss to the snooker world, but his impact and influence will always be remembered. Terry Griffiths leaves behind a lasting legacy in the world of snooker.
