Terry Griffiths, snooker legend, dies at 77 « Euro Weekly News
Snooker Legend Terry Griffiths Dies Aged 77 after dementia Battle: tribute to a Champion
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The world of snooker is mourning the loss of Terry Griffiths, a former world champion and beloved figure in the sport, who passed away peacefully at the age of 77 in his hometown of Llanelli, South Wales.
Griffiths, who had been battling dementia for several years, leaves behind an enduring legacy as both a player and coach.
From underdog to World Champion: Terry Griffiths’ incredible snooker journey
Terry Griffiths’ rise to fame is one of snooker’s most cherished underdog stories.
- World champion in 1979: Griffiths shocked the snooker world by winning the World Championship as a qualifier in his first attempt, beating Dennis Taylor 24-16 in the final.
- Triple crown winner: Beyond the Crucible, he secured the Masters in 1980 and the UK Championship in 1982, cementing his place among snooker’s elite by completing the prestigious Triple Crown.
- Nine consecutive quarter-finals: From 1984 to 1992, Griffiths consistently reached the World Championship quarter-finals, with another final appearance in 1988 against Steve Davis.
Griffiths’ slow and methodical style of play may not have been flashy, but his grit and determination inspired a generation of players and fans alike.
Terry Griffiths: A legendary career beyond the snooker table
After retiring from professional play in 1997, Griffiths transitioned into a highly successful coaching career.
- Mentor to Legends: Griffiths coached some of the sport’s biggest names, including Stephen Hendry, Mark Williams, and Mark Allen. His influence extended far beyond technique, shaping careers and personal lives.
- Tributes from Players: Williams called him a “mentor, coach, friend, legend,” while Allen described him as “family,” underscoring Griffiths’ impact on the snooker community.
Born on October 16, 1947, in the rugby town of Llanelli, Terry Griffiths’ journey to snooker stardom was anything but conventional.
- Humble Beginnings: Griffiths worked as a miner, bus conductor, and postman before turning professional at 31.
- Welsh Pride: A proud Welshman, Griffiths brought immense pride to his homeland, both on and off the table. His cheerful personality and down-to-earth nature endeared him to fans worldwide.
- Cultural Icon: His legacy extended beyond snooker, immortalised in Chas & Dave’s song Snooker Loopy, with a cheeky nod to his iconic hair.
Terry Griffiths’ legacy: A arewell to a snfooker legend
Terry Griffiths passed away surrounded by family in Llanelli, a fitting end for a man who never forgot his roots. His son Wayne, a snooker coach, shared the news on social media, calling his father a proud Welshman who brought honour to his hometown and the sport he loved.
As snooker continues to evolve, Griffiths’ legacy as a world champion, coach, and beloved ambassador of the game will remain a guiding light for future generations.
