Terry Griffiths dies at 77 after long battle with dementia

In South Wales, former world snooker champion Terry Griffiths died on December 1, 2024, at the age of 77 following a long struggle with dementia. His passing was confirmed by his family, who noted that he died peacefully while surrounded by loved ones in his hometown. A proud Welshman, Griffiths was born in Llanelli and had a storied career in professional snooker, celebrating significant victories with the world title in 1979, the Masters in 1980, and the UK Championship in 1982, achieving the prestigious 'Triple Crown.' He was also recognized for his contributions to the sport when he was made an OBE in 2007. Terry's legacy includes a high world-ranking, peaking at third position, and a reputation as a mentor and coach who profoundly impacted many in the snooker community. The news of his death prompted tributes from across the snooker world, with fellow players, including Judd Trump and Mark Allen, expressing their condolences and sharing memories of Griffiths as a humorous and respected figure in the sport. His son, Wayne, took to social media to express the family's deep sorrow and pride in Griffiths's heritage and accomplishments, further emphasizing his status as not only a champion in snooker but also a beloved family member. The World Snooker Tour also shared their condolences, highlighting how Griffiths was revered by everyone involved in the snooker community. Griffiths's passing marks a significant moment in Welsh sport, eliciting sadness among fans and players alike for the loss of a true snooker legend.