Snooker Mourns the Passing of Legendary Champion Ray Reardon

Ray Reardon, the legendary six-times world snooker champion, has passed away at the age of 91 after a battle with cancer. The Welshman's dominance in the sport during the 1970s solidified his place as one of snooker's all-time greats. Reardon, affectionately known as 'Dracula' due to his distinctive widow's peak hairstyle, rose to stardom during snooker's golden age on television. His prowess on the snooker table was unparalleled, as he clinched an impressive six world titles between 1970 and 1978. One of Reardon's notable achievements was winning the inaugural Pot Black series on BBC Two in 1969, marking the beginning of his illustrious career. His talent and sportsmanship were recognized when he was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 1985 Queen's Birthday honours. During his career, Reardon engaged in memorable rivalries with esteemed players like John Spencer and the flamboyant Alex "Hurricane" Higgins, producing riveting matches that captivated audiences on television. His first world title came in 1970 when he triumphed over John Pulman in a closely contested final. Reardon's reign continued with victories over notable opponents, including a historic win against Higgins in 1976, the final Championship before the move to The Crucible in Sheffield. Despite facing new challengers, Reardon's skill and determination led him to secure his final world title in 1978, cementing his status as a snooker legend. Following his retirement from the professional game in 1991, Reardon remained active in the snooker community, offering his expertise as a consultant. His mentoring proved invaluable when he assisted Ronnie O'Sullivan in claiming the world title in 2004, showcasing his enduring impact on the sport. In a fitting tribute to his legacy, the trophy awarded to the winner of the Welsh Open was renamed the Ray Reardon Trophy in 2016, honoring his contributions to the sport of snooker. Ray Reardon's remarkable career and indelible mark on snooker will be remembered by fans and players alike, ensuring his legacy lives on in the annals of snooker history.