Terry Griffiths: Former world snooker champion dies aged 77

Terry Griffiths, the former world snooker champion, has passed away at the age of 77 following a lengthy struggle with dementia, as confirmed by his family.

The Welsh player claimed the 1979 World Championship as a qualifier, defeating Dennis Taylor with a score of 24-16 in the final match.

Griffiths secured the Masters title in 1980 and claimed the UK Championship in 1982, achieving the prestigious 'Triple Crown' in snooker.

He achieved a personal best by climbing to third place in the global rankings and was honored with an OBE in 2007 for his contributions to the sport.

His son Wayne posted on Facebook: "To our friends and all snooker fans, we are heartbroken to announce our loss."

Terry Griffiths OBE peacefully passed away on December 1st, following a long struggle with dementia. He was with his family in his cherished hometown in South Wales.

Terry, a man who takes great pride in his Welsh heritage, was born in Llanelli. He has always brought honor to his hometown and has now found tranquility there. He wouldn’t want it any other way.

A post on the official X account of the World Snooker Tour expressed their sorrow, stating: "We are heartbroken to learn that Terry Griffiths, a former world champion and snooker legend, has died at the age of 77."

"We extend our heartfelt sympathies to Terry's family and numerous friends. He was cherished and held in high regard by everyone in the sporting community."

After finishing his professional playing career in 1997, Griffiths established himself as a skilled coach, motivating players like Stephen Hendry, Mark Williams, and Mark Allen. He also frequently provided commentary on snooker for BBC Sport.

Williams, a three-time world champion and fellow Welshman, was quick to honor him on social media, calling him a "mentor, coach, friend, and legend."

Allen from Northern Ireland expressed, "What an incredible guy who played a significant role in my career and personal life, both during competitions and beyond. I’m completely devastated. He was more than just a coach to me; he was like family."

Dennis Taylor, who lost to Griffiths in the 1979 final, remarked that he was "one of the kindest individuals you could hope to encounter."

"I was able to visit Terry on Saturday. His son, Darren, took me to Llanelli hospital, and we spent a lot of time reminiscing since we go back a long way," Taylor shared with BBC Radio Wales.

He was an incredibly unique individual and an exceptional snooker player, likely one of the greatest coaches the sport has ever seen.

"He had a deep passion for snooker that remained constant throughout his life."

Barry Hearn, the president of Matchroom Sport, expressed his admiration for a "dear friend."

Hearn shared with BBC 5live, "The first event I ever promoted back in 1974 was the Southern Area Amateur Snooker championship featuring Terry Griffiths against Sid Hood."

He was truly an incredible individual with an amazing dry sense of humor. He was passionate about Wales, holding a deep love for his homeland above all else.

"I don't believe anyone has anything negative to say about Terry... he was honestly one of the kindest, most genuine people you'll ever encounter, and he always stayed true to himself."

He had a deep passion for playing snooker and cherished the Crucible. Being the world champion filled him with immense pride, and he brought so much happiness to those around him. He truly was one of our finest representatives on the global stage.

After defeating Barry Hawkins 10-8 in the UK Championship final in York on Sunday, the reigning world number one, Judd Trump, also honored Griffiths during his remarks.

"It's incredibly heartbreaking news," stated the 2019 world champion. "It's hard for the family, especially given their long-standing connection to the sport of snooker."

Terry had a great sense of humor. He was known for his quick wit and had a legendary status in the sport. Whenever I attended the Welsh Open, he would always come up to me and share a laugh.

"I think the number of people who sought his guidance really showed what an exceptional coach he was. I felt a strong bond with him. This is truly heartbreaking news and a somber day for sports in Wales overall."

BBC snooker host Jason Mohammad expressed his sadness on social media, saying, "It's heartbreaking to hear this news this evening."

Thank you, Terry, for showcasing Wales in the world of sports. Your graceful commentary, engaging conversations, and inviting presence in the studio have been truly appreciated.

I will always remember the warm welcome you gave me when I joined the BBC TV snooker team. My thoughts and prayers are with all your loved ones during this time.