A legendary bowler and sportscaster who dominated the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Tour, winning 41 titles, including 10 major championships, and later became a popular TV commentator.
Regarded as one of the greatest bowlers of all time, Earl Roderick Anthony dominated the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Tour, amassing an astonishing 43 titles and six Player of the Year awards. His illustrious career spanned over two decades, during which he revolutionized the sport, increasing its popularity and breaking numerous records.
Anthony's journey to stardom began when he joined his company's bowling league, West Coast Grocery, after serving in the United States Air Force. In his first season, he achieved an impressive official league average of 165, which surged to 217 by his third season. This swift improvement caught the attention of the PBA, and in 1963, he bowled three perfect games in a single tournament, a feat that cemented his status as a rising star.
Anthony's commitment to the sport was unwavering, and he embodied the ideals of perseverance, hard work, and dedication. He believed that success was not solely dependent on natural talent, but rather on the effort one put into honing their skills. This philosophy was reflected in his own career, as he continued to perfect his game, even in the face of increasing competition.
Born on April 27, 1938, Anthony's early life was marked by a humble beginning. He served in the United States Air Force before discovering his passion for bowling. His distinctive style, characterized by a crewcut and plastic-frame glasses (later replaced with more modern frames), earned him the nickname "Square Earl" from his fellow professionals.
Anthony's impact on bowling extends beyond his impressive career statistics. He, along with Dick Weber, played a significant role in popularizing the sport in the United States. His success inspired a new generation of bowlers, and his legacy continues to influence the sport to this day.
Earl Anthony's remarkable career has been recognized and celebrated in various ways. In 2008, the PBA retroactively awarded him two additional titles, revising his total to 43. A biography titled "Earl: The Greatest Bowler of All Time" was published in 2019, providing a comprehensive look at his life and career. Anthony's induction into the PBA Hall of Fame in 1981 solidified his position as a legend of the sport.
Anthony's achievements are often compared to those of his contemporaries, such as Pete Weber and Walter Ray Williams Jr. While each of these bowlers has their own unique strengths and accomplishments, Anthony's consistent excellence and enduring legacy set him apart as one of the greatest of all time.
Earl Anthony passed away on August 14, 2001, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and influence the world of bowling. His remarkable achievements, unwavering dedication, and humble nature have cemented his place as one of the greatest bowlers of all time.
64 Years Old
A legendary professional bowler with 37 career PBA titles, including two USBC Masters and two PBA World Championships, known for his dominant skills and iconic celebrations.
62 Years Old
A legendary bowler with 38 PBA titles, including 10 major championships, and a pioneer in modernizing the sport with his unique style and technique.
67 Years Old
A legendary professional bowler with 20 PBA titles, including two major championships, and a record 47 career titles on the PBA50 Tour. He's considered one of the greatest bowlers of all time.
43 Years Old
A two-handed bowling sensation, known for revolutionizing the sport with his unique style and dominating performances, earning him numerous titles and accolades.
