Snooker Legend Jimmy White Names His All-Time Top Five Players
Snooker icon Jimmy White has shared his expert perspective on the sport's greatest ever competitors, drawing from his own illustrious career that spans over four decades. The veteran player, affectionately known as 'The Whirlwind', has compiled a definitive list of the top five snooker players in history, featuring both legendary rivals from his era and contemporary stars.
White's Elite Selection of Snooker Greats
During a recent interview, the six-time world finalist revealed his dream team of snooker excellence. White's selection includes:
- Ronnie O'Sullivan - The current world number one
- Stephen Hendry - The Scottish seven-time world champion
- Steve Davis - The dominant force of the 1980s
- Mark Selby - The four-time world champion
- Judd Trump - The current world number one contender
White's choices reflect his deep understanding of the game, having faced several of these players in major championship finals throughout his career. The 63-year-old turned professional in 1980 and has accumulated ten ranking titles during his time on the circuit.
Ronnie O'Sullivan: The Undisputed GOAT
When pressed about the ultimate number one position, White leaves no room for debate. "Ronnie O'Sullivan is for sure the GOAT, greatest of all time," he declared in a previous interview with Eurosport. "Seven world titles, seven UK titles, seven Masters titles, more than 1,200 centuries so far in his career. Why he's so good is because he makes the game look so easy. That is why Ronnie O'Sullivan is the greatest of all time."
White's admiration for O'Sullivan's achievements is particularly noteworthy given that the Rocket now holds eight Masters and UK Championship titles, though he still shares the World Championship record with Stephen Hendry at seven victories each.
Memorable Rivalries and Respectful Assessments
The snooker veteran has particularly vivid memories of his encounters with Stephen Hendry, having lost to the Scotsman in four World Championship finals. "I should have won at least two of them," White reflected during a Eurosport broadcast. "The other two, he completely outplayed me. A great champion, five-time Masters champion on the trot. He got into his own bubble and nothing fazed him."
Despite these painful defeats, White reserves his highest praise for Steve Davis when discussing his most formidable opponent. "For me, the hardest player in my career to beat," he admitted. "Fantastic player, fantastic long potter, fantastic temperament, great under pressure. I will put Steve Davis high up, as he is one of the greatest of all time."
Contemporary Champions Earn Their Place
White's list also includes modern greats Mark Selby and Judd Trump, demonstrating his appreciation for the evolving nature of the sport. Speaking about Selby during the 2024 Welsh Open, White noted: "He's as hard as nails. He's a nice fella, he shakes everybody's hand when he's playing them, he's a total gentleman. But make no mistake, he is ruthless on the snooker table."
The veteran player particularly admired Selby's tactical evolution, stating: "He's probably the toughest...I thought growing up with Steve Davis, seeing how tactical he was...[Selby's] took the tactical side to a different level. He can tie people up in knots but he enjoys to get in and score."
Regarding Judd Trump, White was full of admiration following the younger player's victory at the 2024 UK Championship. "Make no mistake about it, [he is one of the best ever]," White asserted. "We always talk about how he was just about potting balls, playing naughty snooker. What he's done, he's rounded his game, he's got great safety play. He's a great shot-maker, great shot selection at the right time."
White continued his praise: "He is Judd Trump, and once again, he produced under pressure - and that's why he's champion. An incredible snooker player."
White's Continued Involvement in the Sport
The snooker legend shared these insights following an exhibition match against Ken Doherty at the Midnite Lounge during the recent Masters tournament. The luxury area was open to all fans attending the prestigious event at Alexandra Palace, where White remains an active and respected figure in the snooker community.
His commentary and analysis continue to be valued by fans and players alike, providing a unique bridge between snooker's golden era and its contemporary champions. White's perspective offers a fascinating glimpse into how the sport has evolved while maintaining its core principles of skill, strategy, and mental fortitude.
