Paul Hunter 1978 - 2006


I was shocked to learn of the death of Paul Hunter at the age of 27 this evening. He was one of those rarities in the game of snooker, media friendly, camera-loving but with the talent to back it up.

He has left the snooker world with some legendary memories including 3 Masters final 10-9 victories and one of the most memorable matches of the decade for Irish snooker fans in his 17-16 defeat to Ken Doherty in the 2003 World Championship semi-final.

The manner in which he fought such an agressive cancer and continued to play during his treatment was a testament to the character of a man who many liked to knock because of his image and success.

In light of the sporting related despair going around after Cyprusgate, Hunter's tragic illness and death brings some welcome perspective for this sports fan.

"Sex was the last thing on my mind. I just wasn't in the mood. But I had to do something to break the tension. It was a quick session - around 10 minutes or so - but I felt great afterwards. She jumped in the bath, I had a kip and then played like a dream. I reeled off four centuries in six frames. I won easily." - Paul Hunter, on the interval in his first Masters final victory which took place while he was 6-2 down. He won the match 10-9 against Fergal O'Brien.


EDIT: You may donate to a cancer charity which Paul Hunter did fundraising work for while he was alive and which his family have stated as his chosen charity. Donate here.

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Published by Paul.