Record-Breaking Snooker Player Silvino Francisco, 1985 British Open Winner, Dies Aged 78

 Record-Breaking Snooker Player Silvino Francisco, 1985 British Open Winner, Dies Aged 78

Former snooker player Silvino Francisco, who made history by winning the 1985 British Open, has passed away at the age of 78.

The South African was a beloved figure on the snooker circuit throughout the 1980s, reaching a career-high ranking of number 10 in the world. Francisco remains the only African player to have won a ranking event in snooker to date.

More than 15.5 million viewers watched as Francisco defeated Kirk Stevens in the British Open final 39 years ago, claiming a then-record prize of £50,000.

Throughout his career, Francisco earned memorable victories over legendary players like Jimmy White and Alex Higgins. He announced his retirement from professional snooker in 1997.

In a statement released today, the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA) confirmed Francisco’s passing: "Silvino Francisco, former world number ten and the only African player to win a ranking event, sadly passed away this month at the age of 78. WST and WPBSA extend our deepest condolences to Silvino’s wife June, and to all his family and friends."

Francisco competed at the Crucible for eight consecutive years starting in 1982, with his final appearance in the 1989 World Professional Snooker Championship.

In the later stages of his career, Francisco faced personal challenges, including struggles with gambling. He was declared bankrupt in 1996, just before retiring, and was arrested the following year for attempting to smuggle £155,000 worth of cannabis through Dover. He was subsequently sentenced to three years in prison.

Following his release, Francisco spent much of his later years living in England with his family, dedicating himself to helping develop the next generation of snooker players.

Tributes from the snooker community poured in after the WPBSA’s announcement. "RIP Silvino Francisco. Thoughts with your family," wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter). Another posted, "Silvino Francisco. Talented player. British Open Champion 1985. Sadly, he took a few wrong turns in life but eventually found redemption. God rest him."

The news of Francisco’s passing comes just weeks after the death of another snooker legend, Terry Griffiths, who died at 77 after a battle with dementia. Griffiths won the World Championship in 1979 as a qualifier and went on to complete a career Triple Crown with victories in the 1980 Masters and the 1982 UK Championship.