Despite the fact that we all live in an age that would seem to revolve all-around social media and incredibly difficult to remain rather private, it could be argued that there is no better way to learn about an individual than by reading an autobiography that they have produced.
Indeed, these books will typically provide the reader with an insight that may not have been possible to have been achieved when using social media, as they will be able to learn things that may not have previously been shared or, at the very least, widely well-known.
On the flip side, stories and events that may be well-documented on the internet may finally be addressed by the individual involved, with that person finally able to put down in words what they thought or what may have happened and their take on the situation.
In truth, an autobiography can be written by anyone and can be considered a success if they have a big enough audience or following that is interested in learning about them.
There is no question, though, that some of snooker’s biggest stars to have ever graced the felt table were impressive throughout their careers and managed to carve out a reputation of being a showman in some cases.
This has led to a number of them having an autobiography written, and we have listed the five best ones that need to be read in an instant below!
Ronnie O’Sullivan: Running
Perhaps the world’s most famous snooker player due to his skill at playing the table, Ronnie O’Sullivan released his autobiography titled “Running” in 2014. He has had many others released since, but this book is the one that will provide the words directly from the player’s own mind and mouth.
Nicknamed “The Rocket”, O’Sullivan has managed to win almost everything that there is possible to win when it comes down to professional snooker which has easily made him a favourite for anybody who decides to place a wager at Unibet Sportsbook, whilst also holding numerous records such as achieving the most centuries and the most maximum breaks.
He has been able to win five World Championships in his career with wins in 2001, 2004, 2008, 2012, 2013 and 2020 and has amassed around £12 million in prize money; more than anybody else.
Steve Davis: Interesting
One of the biggest names to have graced the competitive snooker scene over the years, Steve Davis has been recognised by Buckingham Palace as he has been awarded an OBE. This will instantly make him someone who will instantly be interesting to read about.
During his professional career, he managed to win 81 professional titles and finished runner-up in a further 37 events. He released his autobiography just a few months before entering the “I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here” jungle, though, so you won’t find out anything about that.
“Interesting” is a great read and one that needs to be enjoyed immediately.
“The Hurricane: The Turbulent Life & Times of Alex Higgins”
Having turned professional at the very young age of 22 and being the then-youngest ever player to have won the World Championship in his first attempt in 1972, Alex Higgins is a player that will naturally garner interest regardless of what he does.
He had an exceptional speed when playing at the table as he would pot balls at an incredible rate of pace, whilst he also had a flamboyant approach to his play, thus making him one of the great characters.
His autobiography “The Hurricane: The Turbulent Life & Times of Alex Higgins” sheds some rather eye-opening moments and needs to be read to truly believe what happened to him through his life.
Jimmy White: Second White
Jimmy White is a snooker player who managed to make snooker be something that was extremely enjoyable to watch; partly as he was a showman during the three decades in which he played competitively.
He used to captivate the audience with his antics on and off the snooker table, making him a polarizing figure, whilst he is perhaps famous for being runner-up in the World Championships on no fewer than six occasions; a record he holds.
“Second White” is the second autobiography that he has released and it follows the success that he had of his “Behind the White Wall” title. He reveals more of his story and talks about many of the issues he has battled in his life, including fighting testicular cancer.
Stephen Hendry: Me and the Table – My Autobiography
Known as one of the greatest snooker players of all time, Stephen Hendry managed to transcend the competitive sport in a way like no other when he became the youngest professional player at the tender age of 16 in 1985.
The Scotsman managed to win the World Championship at the age of 21 in 1990 and retired as a record-breaking seven-time World Champion in 2012 and after earning around £8.6 million in prize money throughout his career.
His autobiography tells everyone about his story and gives readers an insight into his professional playing career.
