Snooker, a prestigious cue sport, has gained global recognition and captivated the interests of elites. With its origins rooted in ancient class distinctions, snooker has evolved into a highly competitive indoor sport. The sport is played on a rectangular wooden table covered in green fabric, featuring six pockets. Throughout the year, numerous global tournaments and world championship events attract players from around the world.
In this article, we explore the top 10 richest snooker players in the world, considering their career earnings, endorsement contracts, and overall net worth.
Top 10 Richest Snooker Players in The World
Steve Davis: Reigning at the Top
With a net worth of $33.7 million, Steve Davis takes the crown as the richest snooker player in the world. A legend in the sport, Davis dominated the snooker scene during the 1980s. His impressive record includes winning six World Championships and holding the rank one spot in the world for seven consecutive years. Beyond his playing career, Davis has transitioned into a television analyst and commentator for BBC’s professional snooker coverage.
Stephen Hendry: The Golden Boy at $32.4 million
Stephen Hendry, hailing from Scotland, achieved remarkable success at a young age. The seven-time world champion earned the nickname “The Golden Boy” for becoming the youngest snooker world champion at the age of 21. Hendry’s net worth stands at $32.4 million, accumulated through his career titles and eight seasons as the top-ranked professional snooker player. Currently, he works as a commentator for BBC and ITV.
Dennis Taylor: Triumph Against All Odds at $23.3 million
Dennis Taylor, one of the richest snooker players, overcame significant challenges in his career. Notably, he made a remarkable comeback in the 1985 World Snooker Championship finals, defeating Steve Davis after being down 0-8. With a net worth of $23.3 million, Taylor’s success both on and off the table has secured his place among the sport’s wealthiest individuals. Today, he serves as a commentator for the BBC.
Jimmy White: The People’s Champion at $19.4 million
Jimmy White, renowned for his unique left-handed playing style, has won the hearts of snooker enthusiasts worldwide. Known as “the People’s Champion,” White’s net worth amounts to $19.4 million. Despite reaching the finals of the World Championship six times, he fell short of claiming the title. Nonetheless, his victories in major snooker tournaments, such as the World Cup and the British Open, have contributed to his wealth.
Cliff Thorburn: The Grinder at $15.5 million
Cliff Thorburn, with a net worth of $15.5 million, etched his name in snooker history by becoming the first non-British player to win the World Championship in 1980. His relentless dedication and patience earned him the nickname “The Grinder.” Thorburn’s achievements led to his induction into the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame in 2001, honoring his remarkable professional snooker career.
Ronnie O’Sullivan: The Most Successful at $14.2 million
Regarded as the most successful snooker player of all time, Ronnie O’Sullivan has left an indelible mark on the sport. With a net worth of $14.2 million, O’Sullivan’s passion for snooker from a young age propelled him to win the World Championship multiple times. His recent triumph in the 2020 World Snooker Championship secured his 38th ranking, setting a new record. O’Sullivan’s unparalleled achievements have cemented his legacy in the game.
John Parrot: English Dominance at $11.6 million
John Parrot, a dominant figure in snooker during the 1980s and 90s, stands out as the only English player to win both the World Championship and the UK Championship in the same year. With a net worth of $11.6 million, Parrot’s consistent presence in the top 16 world ranking for fourteen consecutive seasons highlights his success. Despite losing three Masters finals to Stephen Hendry, Parrot’s career earnings and television contracts have contributed significantly to his wealth.
John Higgins: A Stellar Career at $11.2 million
John Higgins embarked on his professional snooker journey in 1992 and went on to win an impressive 31 ranking titles, including three UK Championships, four World Championships, and two Masters. Higgins secured his first ranking title at the Grand Prix in the 1994-95 season, making a substantial impact at the young age of 19. With a net worth of $11.2 million, Higgins has consistently reached the World Snooker Championship finals, further solidifying his position among the sport’s elite players.
Willie Thorne: A Rich Legacy at $10.3 million
Although the late Willie Thorne left this world in 2020 at the age of 66, his legacy as one of the richest snooker players lives on. Thorne’s sole world ranking victory in 1985 and his notable performance in the 1985 UK Championship finals propelled him to success. After retiring, Thorne worked as a commentator for the BBC. Despite his passing, his net worth is estimated at $10.3 million, a testament to his contributions to the sport.
Mark Williams: The Welsh Potting Machine at $9 million
Mark Williams, known as “the Welsh potting machine,” boasts a net worth of $9 million. Since turning professional in 1992, Williams has achieved significant milestones, including winning the World Championships in 2000, 2003, and 2018. As the third player, after Davis and Hendry, to win all three Triple Crown events in a single season, Williams has left an indelible mark on snooker. His 23-ranking tournament victories contribute to his overall wealth.
Conclusion
Snooker, a game that originated from the distinction of class, has evolved into a prestigious indoor sport with immense career potential. The world of snooker is adorned with talented players who have not only achieved success on the table but have also amassed significant wealth. The top 10 richest snooker players, including legends like Steve Davis, Stephen Hendry, and Ronnie O’Sullivan, have left an indelible mark on the sport’s history. Their career earnings, endorsement contracts, and overall net worth reflect their exceptional skill, dedication, and contribution to the game. As snooker continues to captivate audiences worldwide, these players’ legacies will be celebrated for generations to come.