Terry Griffiths, who passed away recently at the age of 77, was not just a remarkable snooker player but also a beloved figure in the world of the sport. The journey of Griffiths from a young boy in Llanelli to becoming the World Champion in 1979 is a narrative filled with humble beginnings, immense talent, and the kindness that he was known for throughout his career. His story resonates with many within the snooker community who have personal anecdotes of how Griffiths, often referred to affectionately as “The Griff,” influenced their lives.
After John Virgo claimed the UK Championship title in 1979, he was invited by the reigning world champion, Terry Griffiths, to join him on an exhibition tour across Britain. This gesture is emblematic of Griffiths’ character. Early one morning during the Welsh leg of the tour, Virgo awoke to find Griffiths washing his car, a simple but profound act that epitomized his gentle nature. Such kindnesses were not isolated incidents; they reflected a man who cared deeply for others in the sport, always willing to lend his wisdom and insight.
Griffiths’ commitment to supporting fellow players was evident when, after Joe Johnson’s dramatic win over him in the quarter-finals of the 1986 World Championship, Griffiths took the time to counsel Johnson on how to handle the pressures of potentially winning the title. His consistent offer of support to players, regardless of their outcomes, underlined his passion for snooker and his desire to uplift those around him. Many careers flourished under his guidance, a testament to his considerable knowledge of the game and nurturing spirit.
Born in 1947, Griffiths was the youngest of three siblings in a modest family. His father worked at a local tin plate factory, which set the stage for Griffiths’ upbringing in a working-class environment. Bright and ambitious, Griffiths attended a grammar school but struggled with the transition when his friends attended a different school. His discontent led him to frequently play truant until he was eventually expelled, but he soon discovered his passion for snooker at the local club named Hatcher’s.
In his early adulthood, Griffiths married Annette, and they raised two sons, Wayne and Darren. His career initially took him in various directions, including roles as a miner, a bus conductor, and a postman. It was a postal strike in 1971 that provided him with the opportunity to dedicate time to snooker, resulting in his first major achievements. Eventually, Griffiths transitioned fully to professional snooker, despite a rocky start.
The UK Championship of 1978 saw Griffiths leading Rex Williams 8-2, only to lose 9-8, showcasing the volatility of the sport. Nevertheless, in the 1979 World Championship at the prestigious Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, Griffiths qualified and made an impressive debut. After beating Perrie Mans and narrowly defeating Alex Higgins, he reached the semi-finals and continued on to the final, ultimately defeating Dennis Taylor 24-16, heralding a new era in snooker as he emerged from anonymity to claim the sport’s highest honor.
Griffiths became a household name, particularly during the television boom of snooker in the 1980s. His rivalry with fellow player Steve Davis was notable, as they competed in five finals during the 1981/82 season, with Davis proving to be a formidable opponent. Even as Griffiths captured multiple titles, including the illustrious Masters in 1980 and the UK Championship in 1982, the shadow of Davis loomed large, denying him further major victories.
Outside of competition, Griffiths opened his own snooker club in Llanelli in 1987, providing a nurturing ground for future Welsh talents. His stature within the game was further underscored by his role as a respected coach, mentoring top players such as Stephen Hendry and Mark Williams after his competitive playing days. This transition allowed him to continue contributing to the sport he loved, combining his extensive knowledge with a desire to help others succeed.
Griffiths was recognized for his contributions to snooker, receiving an OBE in 2007. His later years were marked by struggles with dementia, yet he remained a cherished presence in the snooker community, both as a commentator and a mentor. His death, surrounded by family, has left a palpable void within the sport. His warmth, humility, and integrity have left an indelible legacy that will be remembered fondly by all who knew him or were touched by his passion for snooker. It is clear that for many, Terry Griffiths was not just a champion in sport but a champion of the human spirit.
