A six-time World Snooker Championship finalist and winner of the 1973/74 UK Championship, known for his consistent play and sportsmanship.
Rex Williams is a name synonymous with excellence in the world of billiards and snooker. He is the second player to achieve an official maximum break in snooker, a feat he accomplished in an exhibition match in December 1965.
Williams' journey in the world of cue sports began at a tender age. Born on July 20, 1933, in Halesowen, England, he started playing on a full-size billiard table at the age of 13. Under the guidance of coach Kingsley Kennerley, he quickly rose through the ranks, winning numerous junior titles in both billiards and snooker.
In 1968, Williams won the World Professional Billiards Championship, a title he retained in several challenge matches throughout the 1970s. He lost the title to Fred Davis in 1980 but regained it from 1982 to 1983.
In 1964, Williams played a pivotal role in reestablishing the World Snooker Championship on a challenge basis. Although he lost to John Pulman twice, he went on to reach the semifinals three times when the championship reverted to a knockout format in 1969.
In 1968, Williams initiated the revival of the Professional Billiards Players Association, which later became the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association in 1970. He chaired the association, barring a few weeks in 1983, until 1987, and again from 1997 to 1999.
At the 1986 Grand Prix, Williams became the oldest player to reach a ranking tournament final at the age of 53. Although he lost to Jimmy White, he continued to compete, eventually retiring from professional snooker in 1995.
Throughout his career, Williams made significant contributions to the world of billiards and snooker. He was a pioneer in the revival of the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association and played a crucial role in popularizing the sport. His achievements continue to inspire generations of cue sports enthusiasts.
Williams' dedication to the sport is evident in his personal milestones, including becoming a professional at the age of 18 and achieving his highest ranking, 6th, in the 1976-1977 season.
Rex Williams' remarkable career serves as a testament to his unwavering passion and commitment to the world of billiards and snooker. His achievements continue to inspire and influence generations of cue sports enthusiasts, cementing his legacy as a true legend in the sport.
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