Terry Griffiths, the 1979 world snooker champion and one of the sport’s most celebrated figures, has died at the age of 77 after a long battle with dementia, his family confirmed. The Welsh icon, renowned for his grit and charm, passed away peacefully in his hometown in South Wales, surrounded by loved ones.
Griffiths etched his name in snooker history by clinching the World Championship in 1979, completing a remarkable journey from qualifier to champion by defeating Dennis Taylor in the final. He later added the UK Championship and the Masters titles to his resume, becoming one of the elite players to achieve the sport’s coveted Triple Crown.
The World Snooker Tour hailed Griffiths as an “all-time snooker great,” while tributes poured in from across the sport. Three-time world champion Mark Williams remembered Griffiths as a “mentor, coach, friend, legend,” reflecting his enduring impact on and off the table. Griffiths transitioned into coaching after retiring in 1997, shaping the careers of players like Stephen Hendry, Mark Allen, and Williams himself.
World number one Judd Trump expressed his condolences, calling Griffiths “a legend of the game” and praising his wit and humor, which endeared him to fans and players alike. Griffiths’ legacy as a fierce competitor and an inspiring mentor ensures his memory will remain deeply cherished in the snooker world.
