Rex Williams

Rex Williams

Rex Williams was born on July 20th, 1933

Full Name: Rex Williams
Place of Birth: Sheffield, England
Profession: Snooker Player
Nationality: English
Active Years: 1963-1995
Highest Ranking: 5th
World Championship: Runner-up 1966
Tournament Wins: 4

A six-time World Snooker Championship finalist and winner of the 1973/74 UK Championship, known for his consistent play and sportsmanship.

Written by: Fatima Ahmed Fatima Ahmed

Rex Williams: The Snooker and Billiards Legend

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.

A Career Spanning Decades

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.

World Professional Billiards Championship

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.

World Snooker Championship

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.

World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association

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.

Late-Career Achievements

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.

Lasting Legacy

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.

Awards and Honors

Personal Milestones

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.

Timeline
1933
Born in England
Rex Williams was born on September 12, 1933, in Stoke-on-Trent, England.
1950
Started professional snooker career
Williams began his professional snooker career in the 1950s, competing in various tournaments and exhibitions.
1960
Won UK Snooker Championship
He won the UK Snooker Championship in 1965, one of his most notable achievements in the sport.
1970
Retired from professional snooker
Williams retired from professional snooker in the 1970s, but continued to participate in amateur events and exhibitions.
2004
Passed away at 70
Rex Williams passed away on April 12, 2004, at the age of 70, leaving behind a legacy in English snooker.
Rex Williams

Rex Williams Quiz

Rex Williams is known for his consistent play and what other quality?

Score: 0/5
FAQ
What was Rex Williams career in snooker like?
Rex Williams was a professional English snooker player who competed at the highest level, winning several tournaments and ranking events.
What were Rex Williams most notable snooker achievements?
Williams won the 1973 UK Championship and reached the quarterfinals of the World Snooker Championship on multiple occasions.
How did Rex Williams contribute to the development of snooker?
Williams was a key figure in the development of modern snooker, helping to establish the professional players association and promoting the sport through his own events and exhibitions.
What was Rex Williams relationship like with other snooker players?
Williams was known for his close friendships with fellow players, including Alex Higgins and John Spencer, and was respected for his sportsmanship and integrity.
What is Rex Williams place in snooker history?
Rex Williams is remembered as a respected and accomplished snooker player, who made significant contributions to the sports growth and popularity.

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