Terry Griffiths: Former world snooker champion dies after lengthy battle with dementia
Terry Griffiths, the former world snooker champion, has passed away at the age of 77. He achieved victory at The Crucible in 1979 and later secured the prestigious 'triple crown' in the sport. After hanging up his cue, the Welsh player transitioned into a career in television as a pundit and took on coaching roles.
Monday, December 2, 2024, at 12:30 AM, UK time.
Terry Griffiths, the former world snooker champion, has passed away at the age of 77 following a prolonged struggle with dementia, as confirmed by his family.
Wayne, Griffiths' son, posted on Facebook: "We are heartbroken to inform our friends and snooker fans about our loss."
Terry Griffiths OBE peacefully passed away on December 1, following a long struggle with dementia. He was in the company of his family in the hometown he cherished in South Wales.
Terry, a proud son of Wales, was born in Llanelli and has always brought honor to his hometown. Now, he has found tranquility in Llanelli, and he wouldn't choose it any differently.
Griffiths successfully navigated the qualifying rounds and went on to claim victory at the 1979 World Snooker Championship. Additionally, he triumphed in both the Masters and the UK Championship, achieving the prestigious 'triple crown' in the sport.
In the years that followed, Griffiths emerged as a skilled coach, motivating players such as Stephen Hendry, Mark Williams, and Mark Allen.
In 2007, Griffiths received an OBE in recognition of his contributions to the sport.
Snooker Stars Honor Griffiths' Legacy
World No. 1 Judd Trump honored Griffiths with tributes following his victory in the UK Championship final on Sunday night.
"It's heartbreaking news," Trump commented. "It's difficult for the family, especially considering their long-standing connection to snooker."
Terry had a great sense of humor. He was known for his sharp wit and always brought laughter to those around him. He was a true legend in the sport. Whenever I attended the Welsh Open, he would always come by to share a joke or a funny comment.
"I believe the individuals who sought his guidance really highlighted what an excellent coach he was. I felt a strong bond with him. This is truly heartbreaking news and a tragic moment for sports in Wales as a whole."
Williams and Allen, who both consider Griffiths a mentor, were two of the players who turned to social media on Sunday to honor him.
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Griffiths was a prominent figure in the sport throughout the 1980s and early 1990s, consistently making it to the quarter-finals of the World Championship for nine consecutive years, and even competing in the finals once more in 1988.
He ended his playing career following a first-round loss to Williams in the 1997 World Championship.
World Snooker released a message calling Griffiths an "all-time great in snooker," stating: "We extend our heartfelt condolences to Terry's family and numerous friends. He was cherished and honored by everyone in the sport."
The Welsh Billiards and Snooker Association expressed their sorrow, stating, "We are incredibly saddened to inform you of the death of our President, Terry Griffiths OBE. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Terry's family during this difficult time."
