Snooker icon Terry Griffiths passes away at 77

The family of Terry Griffiths, a former world snooker champion, has announced his death at 77 years old, following an extended struggle with dementia. Griffiths secured the World Championship title in 1979, the Masters in 1980, and the UK Championship in 1982. The Welsh sportsman claimed the 1979 World Championship as a qualifier, defeating Dennis Taylor with a score of 24-16 in the final match. In addition, Griffiths achieved snooker’s ‘Triple Crown’ by winning the Masters in 1980 and the UK Championship in 1982. He also attained a career-best third position in the global rankings and was appointed an OBE in 2007 in recognition of his contributions to the sport. His son, Wayne, conveyed the news via Facebook, stating: “To our friends and snooker followers in general, we are deeply saddened to share the news of our loss.” He added: “Terry Griffiths OBE passed away peacefully on 1st December, after a lengthy battle with dementia. He was surrounded by his family in his beloved hometown in South Wales.” Wayne further remarked: “A proud Welshman, Terry was born in Llanelli, brought pride to Llanelli and now he has found peace in Llanelli. He would not have had it any other way.” The official X account for World Snooker Tour also posted a statement: “We are deeply saddened tonight to hear that Terry Griffiths, a former world champion and all-time snooker great, has passed away at the age of 77.” The message continued: “Our sincere condolences to Terry’s family and many friends. He was loved and respected by everyone in the sport.” After concluding his professional playing career in 1997, Griffiths transitioned into an accomplished coaching role, mentoring prominent players like Stephen Hendry, Mark Williams, and Mark Allen. He also frequently provided snooker commentary for BBC Sport. Mark Williams, a three-time world champion and fellow Welshman, was among the initial individuals to offer tributes on social media, characterizing Griffiths as a “mentor, coach, friend, legend”. Allen, from Northern Ireland, further stated: “What a legend of a man, who helped shape my career and life both on and off the table. Absolutely heartbroken. He wasn’t just a coach, he was family.” Dennis Taylor, whom Griffiths defeated in the 1979 final, described him as “one of the nicest people you could ever wish to meet”. Speaking to BBC Radio Wales, Taylor recounted: “I managed to see Terry on Saturday, his son Darren brought me in to Llanelli hospital and we did a lot of reminiscing because we go back so far.” He continued: “He was a very, very special person and a brilliant snooker player and probably one of the best coaches snooker has ever had.” Taylor concluded: “He just loved snooker and he never changed.” Barry Hearn, president of Matchroom Sport, also honored Griffiths, referring to him as a “great friend”. Hearn shared with BBC 5live: “Terry Griffiths versus Sid Hood for the Southern Area Amateur Snooker title was my first ever event I promoted in 1974.” He further elaborated: “He was just the most fantastic person, the greatest dry sense of humour, a Welsh fanatic, he loved Wales more than anything else.” Hearn added: “I don’t think anyone had a bad word to say about Terry… the straightest, nicest human being you could ever meet and he was just his own man.” He concluded his tribute by saying: “He loved playing snooker, loved the Crucible, terribly proud to be world champion and just a total joy to have around, all over the world he was one of our greatest ambassadors.” Following his 10-8 victory over Barry Hawkins in the UK Championship final in York on Sunday, current world number one Judd Trump also offered his respects to Griffiths. The 2019 world champion, Trump, commented: “It is very, very sad news.” He continued: “It is tough for the family and they have such a history in snooker.” Trump described Griffiths: “Terry was a witty guy. He was always very funny and quick, and a legend of the game. He was someone that, when I went to the Welsh Open he’d always come over and make a joke.” He concluded: “I think because of the people that went to him you could tell he was a great coach. I had a good connection. It is incredibly sad news and a sad day for Welsh sport in general.” BBC snooker presenter Jason Mohammad also posted on social media, stating: “So sad to hear this news tonight.” Mohammad further expressed: “Thank you Terry for putting Wales on the sporting map – for your elegant commentary, chats and warmth in studio. “Will never forget how you welcomed me to the snooker family when joining the BBC TV team. Prayers with all family and friends.”