Snooker legend Ray Reardon has died aged 91.
The Welshman – who won the World Championship six times during his career – is regarded as one of the greatest snooker players ever.
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He died having been in a battle with cancer, his wife confirmed.
Reardon was a dominant force throughout the 1970s and was nicknamed “Dracula” due to his slicked-back hairstyle.
His six titles in eight years were a remarkable achievement, despite battling fierce rivals John Spencer and Alex Higgins.
Reardon was the top-ranked player between 1978 and 1981, eventually handing over the baton to Steve Davis.
His last final appearance was in 1982, when he lost to Higgins.
He retired in 1991 but was later hired by Ronnie O’Sullivan as a consultant.
Welsh snooker legend Ray Reardon MBE has passed away aged 91. PIC.TWITTER.COM/5B30LZL0KC
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) JULY 20, 2024
Reardon’s work helped the modern great win the title in 2004 and he will be remembered as an icon of the sport for decades to come.
Snooker legend Jimmy White led the tributes, saying: “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.”
Three-time champion Mark Williams added: “Ray is one of the best sports people ever from Wales and the best snooker player.
“He’s one of the reasons why a lot of us started playing. He put snooker on the map, alongside Alex Higgins, Jimmy White and Steve Davis.
“Anyone playing now owes them a lot because they brought popularity to the game. He is a real inspiration.”
Reardon was awarded an MBE in 1985 and the Welsh Open trophy was renamed to the Ray Reardon trophy 13 years ago.
