Pool and billiards have been popular games worldwide for many years. The first official championship took place in 1870 in England, where William Cook defeated John Roberts, Sr., earning the title of world champion along with a trophy and £100.
In the U.S., the inaugural pool championship was held in 1878, featuring the 15-ball pool format. Cyrille Dion from Canada emerged as the winner. These early tournaments not only established the tradition of world championships but also led to the creation of key organizations such as the Billiards Association and Control Council, the U.S. Professional Poolplayers Association (UPA), and the Billiards Congress of America (BCA), eventually culminating in the formation of the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA).
Over the years, many exceptional pool players and tournaments have shaped the sport, leading to some of the best pool players in the world ever. So, who stands out as the best pool player in the world today? Here are some top contenders from around the globe showcasing remarkable talent and skill in the game.
10 Greatest Pool Player of All Time
1. Efren "Bata" Reyes
When people talk about the greatest pool player in the world, Efren Reyes is often the first name that comes up. Known as "The Magician," he's famous and one of the most respected players in the game. His achievements are remarkable, with more than 100 professional tournament wins and over 80 international titles.
Efren stands out because he's the first player to win World Championships in both the WPA Nine-ball and WPA Eight-ball categories. He's also been a dominant force at the Derby City Classic, claiming numerous titles, and has left a lasting impression in various U.S. tournaments.
2. Allison Fisher
Allison Fisher is widely regarded as one of the best pool players in the world and the top female pool player. She won her first World Championship at just 17 years old and has since claimed 3 World Nine-ball Championships and 12 World Championships. By 2009, she had earned 53 WPBA titles, leading to her induction into the Billiard Congress of America (BCA) Hall of Fame.
Her impressive skills and achievements have earned her the nickname "The Duchess of Doom." In addition to competing, she teaches pool at her academy, the Allison Fisher World Champion Academy, in Charlotte, NC.
3. Willie Mosconi
Willie Mosconi was a famous pool player known for his impressive trick shots, earning him the nickname "Mr. Pocket Billiards." He dominated the pool scene in the 1940s and 1950s, winning the World Straight Pool Championship 15 times between 1941 and 1957.
Mosconi also set a world record by sinking 526 consecutive balls in a straight pool. In 1996, he was honored as one of the first three players inducted into the Billiard Congress of America Hall of Fame.
He also played an important role in popularizing pool through his work on the 1961 movie The Hustler with Paul Newman. Mosconi taught Newman how to play and set up several shots for the film, even taking a few himself that made it into the final cut.
4. Ralph Greenleaf
Ralph Greenleaf, one of the famous pool players played a key role in making pool a professional sport in the United States. Active from 1919 to 1937, he was one of the top players of his time.
Greenleaf excelled in straight pool and won the World Pocket Billiards Championship 20 times. In 1966, he was honored as one of the first three players inducted into the Billiard Congress of America Hall of Fame.
5. Jeanette Lee
Jeanette Lee, known as "The Black Widow," is one of the best billiards players and influential female pool players from the United States. Her nickname comes from her fierce style of play, as she's known for dominating her opponents. Despite her friendly personality off the table, she's said she would "eat her competitors alive" if she could.
Jeanette Lee has excelled in women's pool competitions and faced top male players, including legends like Efren Reyes. Over her career, she has won more than 27 national and world titles. In 1998, she was named WPBA Sportsperson of the Year. 2013, she was inducted into the Billiard Congress of America Hall of Fame.
6. Earl Strickland
Earl Strickland is known as one of the best billiard players in the world. He has won the Mosconi Cup nine times and the WPA World Nine-ball Championship three times. Strickland has also won the U.S. Open 9-Ball Championship five times and holds many other titles. In 2006, he was honored by being inducted into the Billiard Congress of America Hall of Fame.
7. Rudolf Wanderone
Rudolf Wanderone, better known as "Minnesota Fats," was one of the most famous and skilled pool players of his time. Although he never won major championships, his charm and entertaining personality made him the most recognizable pool player in the U.S.
Wanderone took on the nickname "Minnesota Fats" after the 1961 film The Hustler, where a character was loosely based on his pool hustling days. He also hosted the TV show Celebrity Billiards, further boosting his fame.
In 1984, he was inducted into the Billiard Congress of America Hall of Fame, honoring his role in popularizing pool for decades. He's still remembered as one of the game's legendary figures.
8. Mike Sigel
Mike Sigel is a legend in the world of pool and billiards. He's been named "Pool and Billiards Player of the Year" three times by Billiards Digest and Pool magazines. Over his impressive career, he has claimed over 108 pool titles, including 10 World Pocket Billiard Championships and 3 U.S. Open Nine-Ball Championships.
Known as "Captain Hook," Sigel earned his nickname for his expert use of safety plays to outmaneuver his opponents. His versatility is another reason he's considered one of the greatest—he can shoot effectively with both hands. In 1989, at just 35 years old, he was one of the youngest players inducted into the Billiard Congress of America Hall of Fame
9. Dave Pearson
Dave Pearson, also known as the 'Ginger Wizard,' has greatly impacted professional pool. Hailing from Britain, Pearson has spent over 30 years perfecting his skills and has become a well-known figure in the pool world. He founded Pearson Cues, significantly boosting the pool industry's profile.
Pearson is celebrated for his quick and precise gameplay, earning him a reputation as one of the fastest and most skilled players. One of his most impressive achievements is sinking 16,499 balls in just 24 hours.
10. Shane Van Boeing
Shane Van Boening, born on July 14, 1983, in Rapid City, South Dakota, is a top American billiard player known for his incredible skill and dedication. Despite a hearing impairment, he has become a significant force in the world of billiards.
Since the late 20th century, Van Boening has been a standout in the sport. His grandfather inspired him to start playing at a young age, and his talent quickly caught the attention of top players.
Renowned for his sportsmanship and commitment to staying alcohol-free, Van Boening exemplifies dedication and hard work. His professionalism and ability to excel in various billiard disciplines make him a formidable competitor.
Who's the best billiards player right now?
According to the WPA World Rankings, Joshua Filler holds the number one spot for men, while Chieh-Yu Chou leads the rankings for women.
Conclusion:
If you love playing pool and dream of becoming a famous pool player, you can achieve this goal with dedication and consistant practice.
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