Steve Davis is a name that resonates deeply with snooker fans across generations. Born in 1957 in Plumstead, London, he became one of the sport’s most dominant figures during the 1980s. Davis reached eight World Snooker Championship finals in nine years and claimed six world titles. Holding the world number one ranking for seven consecutive seasons. He won 28 ranking titles, placing him among the all-time greats of the sport.
His influence extended beyond his victories. Steve Davis was the first player to make an officially recognized maximum break in professional competition and the first to earn £1 million in career prize money. He remains the only snooker player to have won the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Award, which he received in 1988.
The Iconic 1985 World Championship Final
The 1985 World Snooker Championship final between Steve Davis and Dennis Taylor is one of the most famous matches in snooker history. Davis took an early 8–0 lead, but Taylor staged a remarkable comeback to tie the match and force a deciding frame. The final frame lasted 68 minutes and ended with Taylor potting the last black ball. Watched by 18.5 million viewers in the UK, the largest British TV audience for any broadcast after midnight. This moment shaped Davis’s public image and cemented his place in sporting folklore.
Emotional Moments at the 2025 World Snooker Championship
During the 2025 World Snooker Championship, Steve Davis attended a special commemorative event at the Crucible Theatre to mark the 40th anniversary of his legendary 1985 final. The event brought together former champions and celebrated the sport’s rich history. Davis is now a respected commentator and analyst for the BBC. He found himself reflecting on the emotional highs and lows of his career.
In a poignant moment in the BBC studio, Davis became visibly emotional after witnessing a snooker star’s ‘brave’ display during the championship final. BBC host Hazel Irvine noticed his reaction and remarked, “You’ve gone all teary, haven’t you?”. Davis admitted, “I have, it’s sort of these things because you…” before trailing off, overcome by the memories and the atmosphere in the studio. This rare display of vulnerability from the usually composed Davis touched fans and highlighted his deep connection to the sport.
Steve Davis: From Champion to Ambassador
After retiring from professional play in 2016, Steve Davis remained a prominent figure in snooker. He transitioned smoothly into broadcasting, sharing his insights and experiences with audiences worldwide. His passion for the game, combined with his expertise, has made him a trusted voice and ambassador for snooker.
Davis’s legacy goes beyond his titles and records. He played a crucial role in popularizing snooker, both in the UK and internationally. His tours in China during the 1980s helped open new markets for the sport. His off-table endorsements made him one of the UK’s highest-paid sports personalities at the time.
The Enduring Appeal of Steve Davis
Fans continue to celebrate Steve Davis for his achievements, sportsmanship, and contributions to snooker. His induction into the World Snooker Hall of Fame and recognition as one of the greatest players of all time underscore his lasting impact on the sport. Even years after his retirement, Davis’s presence at major tournaments and his emotional moments in the studio remind viewers of his enduring connection to snooker.
The recent scenes at the BBC studio, where Steve Davis became teary-eyed, show that the passion for the game never fades. His journey from world champion to beloved commentator serves as an inspiration for current players and fans alike.