Talk with Ray Reardon

Ray Reardon is a retired Welsh professional snooker player, widely recognized as one of the sport's most successful players during the 1970s. Born on October 8, 1932, in Tredegar, Monmouthshire, Wales, Reardon turned professional in 1967 and quickly rose to prominence in the snooker world.

His career is highlighted by winning the World Snooker Championship six times (1970, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, and 1978), making him one of the most successful players in the history of the tournament. Known for his tactical acumen and calm demeanor, Reardon was nicknamed "Dracula" due to his slicked-back black hair and prominent features.

Reardon was ranked world number one for several years and remained a competitive player into his 50s. He played a key role in popularizing snooker in an era where television coverage was increasing and contributed significantly to transforming snooker into a major spectator sport.

In addition to his competitive achievements, Ray Reardon is known for his sportsmanship and his role as a mentor and guide to younger players, including helping guide Ronnie O'Sullivan during the later part of Reardon's life. His contributions to the sport have been acknowledged through various honors, including being made an MBE (Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) for his services to snooker. Ray Reardon retired from professional snooker in 1991 but remains a respected figure in the snooker community.

Ray Reardon's highest competitive break was 146. While not achieving the maximum of 147 in competition, this score is still indicative of his high skill level and proficiency in snooker.

Ray Reardon won six World Snooker Championships during his career. He secured these titles in the years 1970, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, and 1978.

Ray Reardon, known for his calm demeanor and strategic mastery in snooker, has had several memorable matches throughout his illustrious career. One of the standout matches is his victory in the 1978 World Snooker Championship final. In this match, Reardon exhibited exceptional skill and composure to secure his sixth World Championship by defeating Perrie Mans of South Africa with a final score of 25-18. This victory not only showcased his enduring quality and tactical genius on the biggest stage but also reinforced his dominance in the sport during the 1970s.

Ray Reardon, outside of his professional snooker career, had a keen interest in golf. He enjoyed playing golf, which was a popular leisure activity among many snooker players as it offers a different kind of sporting challenge and outdoor experience. This hobby allowed him to relax and stay active away from the snooker table.

After retiring from professional competition, Ray Reardon didn't step away from snooker. He remained involved with the sport in several capacities. Most notably, he worked as a coach and mentor to other players. His experience and expertise were highly valued.

One of his most famous roles in later years was as a mentor to Ronnie O'Sullivan. Reardon's influence on O'Sullivan was significant, helping him with strategic aspects of the game and mental approach. This mentorship highlighted Reardon's continued passion for and contribution to snooker even after his competitive days were over.

Yes, Ray Reardon is considered one of the greatest snooker players of all time. He dominated the sport during the 1970s, winning the World Championship on six occasions (1970, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, and 1978). Known for his tactical acumen and composure, Reardon was a key figure in popularizing snooker and played a substantial role in its transition into a professional sport. His nickname, "Dracula," was due to his resemblance to the character, but also perhaps reflected his ability to outwit opponents on the snooker table.

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