Snooker: From Military Pastime to Global Professional Sport

Snooker began in 1875 when British army officer Neville Chamberlain created rules that blended black pool and pyramids while stationed in India. The term “snooker” was then used for inexperienced military personnel. The sport grew from a British gentleman’s game into an international professional competition. Its standard rules were formalised in 1919, while the first World Snooker Championship was held in 1927. Joe Davis dominated its early years with 15 consecutive world titles. Television helped make snooker widely popular from 1969, with stars such as Ray Reardon, Steve Davis, Stephen Hendry and Ronnie O’Sullivan shaping different eras. Today, players compete worldwide for major titles including the World Championship, UK Championship and Masters.

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