Snooker has given us legends who changed the sport forever. From the dominance of Stephen Hendry to the genius of Ronnie O’Sullivan, each era has had its icons. In this article, we look at the Top 10 Greatest Snooker Players of All Time.
Why These Players Made the List
To be considered, a player must have:
- World Championship success
- Ranking titles
- Impact on the sport
- Legacy that inspires new generations
1. Ronnie O’Sullivan – The Rocket
Source: Deposit Photos
Ronnie O’Sullivan is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in snooker history. His natural talent, lightning speed, and six World Championship titles set him apart. O’Sullivan has over 39 ranking titles, the most centuries, and the most competitive 147s.
His playing style is fearless, entertaining, and unpredictable. For many fans, Ronnie is not only the greatest but also the most exciting to watch.
👉 Related: Stephen Hendry: Career, Rivalries with Peter Ebdon, and Net Worth
2. Stephen Hendry – The King of the Nineties
Source: Deposit Photos
Stephen Hendry ruled the 1990s with unmatched dominance. He won seven World Championships and 36 ranking titles. His fearless long potting and break-building changed snooker forever.
Hendry’s reign ended when younger players challenged him, but his impact remains legendary.
👉 Related: Barry McGuigan: The Clones Cyclone and His Powerful Legacy
3. Steve Davis – Mr. Consistency
Steve Davis was the face of snooker in the 1980s. He won six World Championships and 28 ranking titles. His calm, methodical style made him almost unbeatable.
Davis also helped popularise snooker on TV, becoming a household name in the UK.
4. John Higgins – The Wizard of Wishaw
John Higgins has been one of the most consistent players in modern snooker. He has four World Championships and over 30 ranking titles. Known for his tactical brain, he is one of the toughest competitors on the tour.
Higgins’ longevity and ability to adapt against younger stars make him one of the all-time greats.
5. Mark Selby – The Jester from Leicester
Mark Selby is famous for his mental toughness and all-around game. He has won four World Championships and over 20 ranking titles. Selby is often called the best safety player in history.
His tactical game frustrates opponents, but his scoring power makes him lethal when in form.
6. Ray Reardon – Dracula
Ray Reardon was the first true snooker superstar of the modern era. He won six World Championships in the 1970s. His tactical play and calm nature set the standard for others to follow.
Reardon’s charisma and dominance helped bring snooker into the mainstream.
👉 Related: Ray Reardon: The Snooker Legend Who Changed the Game
7. Alex Higgins – The People’s Champion
Alex “Hurricane” Higgins was one of the most entertaining players in the sport’s history. He won two World Championships and inspired millions with his attacking style.
Higgins’ emotional nature, charisma, and flair made him a beloved figure among fans. He brought rock-and-roll energy to snooker.
8. Jimmy White – The People’s Runner-Up
Jimmy White never won the World Championship, but he reached six finals. Known as “The Whirlwind,” he was loved for his fast, attacking style.
White’s popularity is unmatched, and he remains one of the sport’s biggest names despite his near misses.
9. Mark Williams – The Welsh Potting Machine
Mark Williams has three World Championships and a relaxed, attacking game. He is famous for his single-handed shots and fearless style.
Williams is one of the most naturally talented players to have ever played snooker and continues to perform at a high level in his forties.
10. Joe Davis – The Original Champion
Joe Davis won the first 15 World Championships from 1927 to 1946. While the game was different then, his dominance set the foundation for modern snooker.
Davis remains a historic figure and a pioneer of the sport.
Honourable Mentions
- Cliff Thorburn – Canada’s first world champion
- Ken Doherty – Known for his tactical play
- Neil Robertson – Australia’s best-ever player
- Judd Trump – Modern great with flair and titles
