Snooker legends Jimmy White and Steve Davis have a storied history marked by rivalry and mutual respect. Recently, White opened up about their relationship, asserting that media hype fueled their competitive narrative.
Rivalry on the Baize
Throughout the 1980s, White and Davis competed fiercely in several high-stakes matches. The pinnacle of their rivalry occurred during the 1984 World Snooker Championship final, where Davis secured victory over White, marking the first of six times White finished as runner-up at the Crucible.
Despite their competitive matches, White emphasizes that they have always respected each other. “Steve Davis and I always respected each other. It was only the red tops that made us rivals,” White stated after an exhibition match against Ken Doherty.
Memorable Matches
- 1984 World Snooker Championship Final: Davis defeated White.
- White claimed victory over Davis at the 1988 Canadian Masters.
White reflects on their relationship, noting they often travel together and participate in exhibitions, indicating a bond beyond the competitive arena. His sentiments echo those of Davis, who praised White’s ongoing ability to compete at a high level in his 60s.
Steve Davis’ Praise for Jimmy White
Davis recently expressed his admiration for White’s continued success. In December 2024, he remarked on how impressive it is for White to perform well against top players. “For Jimmy to be competing and beating some of the top players in the world on a weekly basis is just fantastic,” Davis said.
According to Davis, White’s struggles with consistency as he ages make his achievements even more remarkable. “When he manages to put it together, it’s fantastic to watch,” he added.
Current Snooker Scene
While White limited his participation at the Masters to an exhibition, other elite players showcased their skills. Shaun Murphy, the reigning champion, faced an unexpected early exit in a loss to Wu Yize.
Upcoming Matches and Events
- Wu Yize vs. Kyren Wilson in Saturday’s semi-final.
- The winner will proceed to face either Judd Trump or John Higgins in the final.
Additionally, the Midnite Lounge, sponsoring the 2026 Masters, introduced the Midnite Shuttle. This service will aid fans in easier access to the venue, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing the spectator experience.
In conclusion, the relationship between snooker greats Jimmy White and Steve Davis showcases not only the intensity of their rivalry but also the depth of their respect for one another. Their stories continue to captivate fans, blending competition with camaraderie in the sport.
