Mark Williams Snooker Stats: Bio, Ranking, And Records

Let's dive deep into the amazing world of Mark Williams, one of snooker's true legends. We're going to explore everything from his career highlights to his detailed stats, giving you a comprehensive look at what makes him such a celebrated player. Whether you're a long-time snooker fan or new to the game, get ready to discover some fascinating insights into Williams' incredible journey.

Who is Mark Williams?

Mark Williams, affectionately nicknamed "The Welsh Potting Machine," is a Welsh professional snooker player known for his exceptional potting ability. Born on March 21, 1975, in Cwmbran, Wales, Williams has been a dominant force in the snooker world for over two decades. What sets Williams apart from many of his contemporaries is his laid-back attitude and his remarkable talent for making difficult shots look effortless. Often seen with a smile on his face, he brings a certain charm to the table that endears him to fans around the globe.

Williams turned professional in 1992 and quickly made a name for himself with his aggressive style of play and fearless approach to the game. His career is marked by numerous titles, including multiple World Championships, UK Championships, and Masters titles. But it's not just the trophies that define Williams; it's his resilience and ability to compete at the highest level even as the game evolves around him. He's a player who has consistently defied expectations, proving that experience and skill can triumph over youth and raw power.

Off the table, Williams is known for his love of darts and spending time with his family. He's a down-to-earth character who remains true to his roots, often returning to his hometown to relax and recharge. This groundedness, combined with his exceptional talent, makes him a unique and beloved figure in the world of snooker. Through highs and lows, Williams has remained a constant presence, entertaining audiences with his potting prowess and unwavering spirit.

Key Career Highlights

When we talk about Mark Williams' career, guys, it's packed with so many incredible moments. Let's break down some of the standout achievements that have cemented his place in snooker history.

World Championships

Williams has lifted the World Championship trophy three times, in 2000, 2003, and 2018. Each victory is a testament to his skill, determination, and ability to perform under pressure. His first win in 2000 saw him defeat fellow Welshman Matthew Stevens in the final, marking a significant moment for Welsh snooker. In 2003, he overcame Ken Doherty to claim his second title, solidifying his status as one of the game's elite. However, it was his 2018 victory that truly captured the hearts of fans worldwide. At the age of 43, Williams became the second-oldest player to win the title at the Crucible, defeating John Higgins in a thrilling final. This win was particularly special as many had written him off, making his comeback all the more remarkable.

UK Championships

Williams has also tasted success at the UK Championship, winning the title twice in 1999 and 2002. The UK Championship is one of the most prestigious tournaments in snooker, and winning it requires immense skill and mental fortitude. His first victory in 1999 saw him beat Matthew Stevens, showcasing his dominance at the time. In 2002, he defeated Ken Doherty to secure his second UK Championship title, further cementing his reputation as a top player.

Masters Titles

Another jewel in Williams' crown is his two Masters titles, won in 1998 and 2003. The Masters is an invitational tournament featuring the top 16 players in the world, making it an exclusive and highly competitive event. His first win in 1998 was a breakthrough moment in his career, establishing him as a major force in the game. In 2003, he added another Masters title to his collection, defeating Stephen Hendry in the final. These victories highlight his ability to perform consistently against the best players in the world.

Other Notable Wins

Beyond the Triple Crown events, Williams has won numerous other tournaments throughout his career, including the Welsh Open, German Masters, and China Open. These wins demonstrate his versatility and ability to compete successfully in different conditions and against a variety of opponents. Each title adds to his legacy and solidifies his position as one of the most successful players of his generation.

Detailed Stats and Rankings

Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty of Mark Williams' stats. Numbers don't lie, and they paint a clear picture of his consistent excellence.

Current Ranking

As of late 2024, Mark Williams remains a top player in the world rankings. While rankings can fluctuate, he consistently stays within the top 16, reflecting his ongoing competitiveness and ability to win matches against the best. This sustained presence at the top of the game is a testament to his enduring skill and dedication.

Career Earnings

Over his career, Williams has amassed significant earnings from tournament wins and endorsements. His financial success is a direct result of his talent and hard work, allowing him to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle and provide for his family. While the exact figures may vary depending on the source, it's safe to say that he has earned millions of pounds throughout his career, placing him among the highest-earning snooker players of all time.

Centuries and Maximum Breaks

Williams is renowned for his potting ability and has compiled numerous century breaks throughout his career. A century break is when a player scores 100 or more points in a single visit to the table, and it's a sign of exceptional skill and concentration. While the exact number of century breaks he has made may vary slightly depending on the source, it's safe to say that he has made well over 500 century breaks. In addition to century breaks, Williams has also achieved a few maximum breaks of 147, which is the highest possible break in snooker. Achieving a maximum break is a rare and prestigious feat, and it demonstrates Williams' ability to perform under pressure and execute perfect shots.

Win Percentage

Another important statistic to consider is Williams' win percentage. Over his career, he has won a significant percentage of the matches he has played, reflecting his consistency and ability to perform well in different conditions. While the exact win percentage may vary depending on the source, it's safe to say that he has won well over 60% of his matches, placing him among the most successful players of all time.

Playing Style and Strengths

Mark Williams' playing style is often described as aggressive and attacking. He's known for his exceptional potting ability, his willingness to take on difficult shots, and his ability to score heavily when he's in form.

Potting Prowess

Williams is widely regarded as one of the best potters in the history of snooker. His ability to consistently sink balls from long range and at difficult angles is a key aspect of his game. Whether it's a delicate touch or a powerful drive, Williams has the skill to make shots that other players wouldn't even attempt. This potting prowess allows him to dominate frames and put pressure on his opponents.

Tactical Acumen

While Williams is known for his attacking style, he also possesses a strong tactical understanding of the game. He knows when to go for a pot and when to play a safety shot, and he's adept at controlling the cue ball to leave his opponent in difficult positions. This tactical acumen allows him to grind out wins even when he's not at his best.

Mental Fortitude

Another key strength of Williams is his mental fortitude. He's known for his ability to stay calm and focused under pressure, and he doesn't let setbacks affect his game. This mental toughness allows him to compete at the highest level even when the stakes are high. Whether he's facing a tough opponent or dealing with distractions, Williams remains composed and determined, making him a formidable competitor.

Adaptability

Finally, Williams is known for his adaptability. He's able to adjust his game to suit different conditions and opponents, and he's always looking for ways to improve his skills. This adaptability has allowed him to remain competitive even as the game has evolved around him. Whether it's adapting to new equipment or adjusting his tactics to counter a specific opponent, Williams is always willing to learn and grow, making him a true master of the game.

Mark Williams: A Snooker Legend

In conclusion, Mark Williams is more than just a snooker player; he's a true icon of the sport. His remarkable achievements, consistent performance, and unique playing style have cemented his place in snooker history. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the game, there's no denying the impact that Williams has had on the sport.

From his three World Championship titles to his numerous other wins, Williams has consistently demonstrated his skill, determination, and ability to perform under pressure. His potting prowess, tactical acumen, and mental fortitude make him a formidable opponent, and his adaptability allows him to remain competitive even as the game evolves around him.

Off the table, Williams is known for his down-to-earth personality and his love of spending time with his family. He's a player who remains true to his roots, and his groundedness makes him a beloved figure in the world of snooker. Whether he's entertaining audiences with his potting skills or sharing a laugh with his fellow players, Williams brings a certain charm to the game that endears him to fans around the globe.

So, the next time you watch Mark Williams play, take a moment to appreciate his incredible talent, his unwavering spirit, and his enduring love for the game. He's a snooker legend, and his legacy will continue to inspire players and fans for generations to come.