Ray Reardon, a legendary figure in the world of snooker and a six-time world champion, has passed away at the age of 91 after a battle with cancer. Reardon’s wife, Carol, confirmed his death on Friday night to the World Snooker Tour (WST).
Reardon, who was a dominant force in snooker during the 1970s, is celebrated as one of the greatest players in the sport’s history. The WST released a statement on their official website acknowledging his immense contributions and achievements in snooker.
Tributes from the snooker community have poured in. Jimmy White expressed his sorrow on social media, calling Reardon a “total class act” and a “giant of the game.”
Gutted to hear my very good friend Ray Reardon has passed away. A total class act and very kind to me when I was making my way in the game. A giant of the game. Rest in Peace mate pic.twitter.com/CYvNqjUDjk
— Jimmy White MBE (@jimmywhite147) July 20, 2024
Mark Williams, a three-time world champion, praised Reardon as one of the best sportspeople from Wales and an inspiration who helped popularize snooker.
Mark Selby, a four-time world champion, referred to Reardon as “a legend,” while commentator and former player John Virgo described it as “an honour” to have known him.
Terribly sad news to hear the passing of Ray Reardon. Did not manage to be in his presence much, but what a legend of our sport. RIP Ray ????????
— Mark Selby MBE (@markjesterselby) July 20, 2024
Dennis Taylor, the 1985 world champion, fondly remembered traveling the world with Reardon, calling him “a true gentleman.” Stuart Bingham, the 2015 world champion, recounted his pride in receiving the Welsh Open trophy from Reardon in 2017.
So sad to hear of the passing of the great Ray Reardon.
Would always be in my top 8 of all time.
Had the pleasure of traveling around the world with a true gentleman.
Condolences to all his family. RIP Ray.— Dennis Taylor (@dennistaylor147) July 20, 2024
RIP Ray Reardon we met a few times I remember being in the dressing/green room and another snooker player called him Dracula I had never heard this before and said to Ray “you cannot let him call you that” He said “go on then Frank sort them out” then everyone laughed I felt… pic.twitter.com/0YzjiXegTt
— Frank Bruno MBE ???????? (@frankbrunoboxer) July 20, 2024
Ray Reardon’s legacy in snooker is profound, and his impact on the sport will be remembered by players and fans alike.
