The Best SHOTS In The History Of Billiards

Billiards, a term encompassing a variety of games including pool, snooker, and carom, has a rich history filled with incredible shots that have amazed audiences and showcased the precision and creativity of the players.

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1. Efren Reyes – The Magician’s Z-Shot (1995 Sands Regency Open)
Efren "Bata" Reyes, known as "The Magician," is famous for his creative and unpredictable play. One of his most memorable shots came during the 1995 Sands Regency Open 9-ball championship. Facing Earl Strickland, Reyes found himself snookered behind the nine ball, with the two ball situated near the middle of the table. He executed a stunning Z-shot, striking the cue ball to three cushions with such precision that it came back to hit the two ball perfectly into the pocket. This shot is often cited as a testament to Reyes's genius and creativity in the game.

2. Ronnie O’Sullivan – The Fastest 147 (1997 World Championship)
In snooker, a 147 break is the highest possible score in a single frame, and achieving it requires potting 15 reds with 15 blacks followed by all six colours. Ronnie O'Sullivan, renowned for his skill and speed around the table, completed the fastest ever recorded 147 break in just 5 minutes and 8 seconds during the 1997 World Championship. This feat not only showcased his precision but also his incredible control and speed, making it one of the most iconic moments in snooker history.

3. Willie Mosconi – The 526 Run (1954)
Willie Mosconi, an American pool player, set a record that still stands today by running 526 consecutive balls in straight pool during an exhibition match in 1954. This record-breaking feat was a testament to his unparalleled skill and concentration, and it remains one of the most legendary accomplishments in billiard sports.

4. Allison Fisher – Dramatic Comeback with Triple Combination (Women’s Professional Billiards Association Tour)
Known as the "Duchess of Doom," Allison Fisher has had numerous remarkable moments in her career. One particularly notable shot was during a critical match where she executed a triple combination shot under high pressure to win the game. This shot not only demonstrated her strategic thinking but also her precise execution under stress.

5. Jeanette Lee – Critical Massé Shot (WPBA Classic Tour)
Jeanette "The Black Widow" Lee is known for her aggressive style of play and her mastery of trick shots. In one of her matches on the WPBA Classic Tour, Lee faced a near-impossible snooker. She performed a massé shot—a technique where the cue is elevated and the cue ball is struck with extreme spin—bending the ball around several obstacles to pot her target. This shot is frequently highlighted as an example of her skill and fearless gameplay.

6. Jimmy White – The Whirlwind’s Maximum Break (1992 World Championship)
Jimmy White, nicknamed "The Whirlwind" because of his fast and attacking style of play, compiled a flawless 147 break at the Crucible Theatre during the 1992 World Championship. His maximum was achieved under immense pressure and is remembered for its flawless execution and dramatic context, as it occurred during one of snooker’s most prestigious tournaments.

These shots are not only demonstrations of technical skill but also of the strategic ingenuity and mental toughness required in billiards. They encapsulate the drama and excitement of the sport, illustrating why billiards continues to captivate fans around the world. Each player mentioned has contributed significantly to the sport's rich heritage, leaving behind moments of brilliance that continue to inspire future generations of players.