- Knockout
Snooker is a game of both precision and grace, with a rich history that stretches back to the late 1800s. Starting as a hobby for British Army officers in India, it has evolved to become a sport recognized and played around the world, complete with fan bases and professional tournaments spanning several continents.
The year was 1875, and British Army officers stationed in Jabalpur, India, invented a game later called “snooker.” It was an adaptation of billiards, incorporating elements from different cue sports such as pyramid and black pool. Sir Neville Chamberlain (not the British Prime Minister) is often noted for shaping the formal rules of the game and is said to have coined the word “snooker.” It was military slang used to describe inexperienced cadets.
By the early 20th century, snooker was beginning to take root in the UK. It thrived primarily in gentlemen’s clubs, where the game’s refined, strategic nature resonated with elite society. For those accustomed to straightforward pool or billiards, snooker offered a deeper level of challenge and intrigue, demanding both patience and tactical foresight.
The most significant breakthrough came in the 1980s with the rise of color television. Until then, snooker had been a difficult game to follow on black-and-white screens, where ball colors were indistinguishable. Once viewers could clearly differentiate the balls, the sport’s appeal grew rapidly.
This era saw the rise of snooker icons such as Steve Davis, Jimmy White, and Alex Higgins, whose charisma and rivalries brought the sport to life. Higgins, in particular, was known for his flair and unpredictability, earning him the nickname “The Hurricane.” Snooker tournaments like the World Championship at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield became must-watch events, drawing millions of viewers and solidifying the game’s place in British pop culture.
With growing media attention and international broadcasting, snooker expanded beyond its British roots. The sport gained popularity across Europe, Asia (especially China and Thailand), and the Middle East. Modern players like Ronnie O’Sullivan, Ding Junhui, and Judd Trump have taken the sport to new heights, mixing raw talent with athleticism and professionalism.
Today, governing bodies like the World Snooker Tour manage a calendar full of ranking events, while technological advancements such as instant replays and advanced statistics enhance the viewer experience. Prize money has also grown significantly, reflecting the sport's international prestige.
From the colonial clubs of India to the dazzling lights of Shanghai and the historic Crucible Theatre, snooker has undergone a remarkable transformation. What began as a leisure activity for British officers is now a respected global sport. Its journey illustrates how tradition, innovation, and personality can together shape a game's destiny—captivating audiences for over a century.
