Snooker legend Ray Reardon, known for his dominance in the 1970s and iconic playing style, has died at the age of 91 following a battle with cancer.
A statement on the World Snooker Tour’s official website said: “Ray Reardon, widely regarded as one of the greatest snooker players ever and a six-time world champion, has died at the age of 91.”
Nicknamed “Dracula” due to his distinctive widow’s peak hairstyle, Reardon’s career spanned from his early days working in mines and as a police officer to becoming a snooker icon. He secured his first six World Championship titles in a dominant run between 1970 and 1978:
1970: Reardon claimed his maiden World Championship title, sparking a period of snooker mastery.
1973, 1974, 1975, 1976: Reardon continued his reign, securing four consecutive World Championship victories.
1978: At the age of 45, Reardon achieved a record-breaking sixth World Championship win, solidifying his place as the oldest champion at the time.
His rise to prominence coincided with the introduction of color television and extensive live snooker broadcasts on BBC. Reardon became a leading figure, shaping the sport’s growth during this crucial period.
Even before turning professional at 35 in 1967, Reardon had established himself as a force to be reckoned with. He achieved multiple amateur championship wins, including the Welsh Amateur Championship (1950-1955) and the English Amateur Championship (1964).
His professional debut came in the 1967 World Championship, but his first victory on the grand stage followed a year later.
While some records have been surpassed – Ronnie O’Sullivan became the oldest World Champion in 2022 and Steve Davis matched Reardon’s six titles in 1989 – Reardon’s legacy remains strong.
The Welsh holds the record for the oldest winner of a ranking title (1982 Professional Players Tournament) and continued to win titles even after his record-breaking World Championship.
Renowned for his tactical prowess, Reardon even mentored the legendary Ronnie O’Sullivan in 2004. His contributions to the sport were further recognized with an MBE in 1985 and his induction into the snooker Hall of Fame in 2011.
