Billiard Games (Sport)

The game of billiards has a surprising number of varieties throughout the world. Factors in that variety include the number and appearance of the billiard balls, the size of the table, the existence of side and corner pockets, and the object of play. The classic form of the game-three-cushion billiards-is played on a pock-etless table with one red ball and two white balls, one of which is marked with a spot; it is often known as French billiards, carom billiards, or (simply) billiards.

Pocket billiards, which embraces both snooker and the game sometimes known as English billiards, is the prevalent form of billiards in the United Kingdom. The world professional snooker championship was first held in 1927; until 1947 it was won every year by Joe Davis (championships were not held during World War II). The championship was discontinued during the 1950s, was revived during the 1960s, and became a knockout event in 1969.

The American form of pocket billiards, usually known as pool, differs markedly from the British game. Its most popular variations are eight-ball, nine-ball, and straight (or 14.1) pool. Though earlier straight pool tournaments were held with regularity, since the 1970s nine-ball and eight-ball pool have surpassed straight pool in popularity in the United States, and nine-ball has gained some prominence internationally. In 1990 the World Pool-Billiard Association (WPA; founded 1987) inaugurated the nine-ball world championship.

World Three-Cushion Championship

Competition has been held since 1928; table shows champions for the past 10 years.

World Professional Snooker Championship

Competition has been held since 1927; table shows champions for the past 10 years. Won by a British player unless otherwise indicated.

WPA World Nine-Ball Championships

Competition has been held since 1990; table shows champions for the past 10 years.