Timeless Whirlwind: Jimmy White’s Relentless Snooker Spirit Earns Praise as He Battles to Stay Among the Elite

Jimmy White’s legendary career continues to capture the hearts of snooker fans, even as he nears his 63rd birthday. Despite losing his place on the World Snooker Tour after falling short in his most recent bid to qualify for the World Championship—a tournament he hasn’t graced since 2006—White’s passion and influence on the sport remain undiminished.

Known affectionately as “The Whirlwind,” White is still one of snooker’s biggest attractions. His enduring popularity and commitment to the sport could yet see him remain among the elite if he’s granted an Invitational Tour Card by the World Snooker Tour (WST) and the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA). Regardless of whether that card comes, his legacy as one of the game’s all-time greats and a true “people’s champion” is already firmly cemented.

Ken Doherty, the 1997 world champion, praised White’s incredible longevity and dedication. Speaking via Betway, Doherty said, “His dedication to the game has never waned. He’s still doing shows with John Virgo, constantly practicing, and playing with as much passion as he ever did—possibly even more than in the 80s. He’s a fantastic character who has given so much to the sport.”

Doherty added that White’s influence goes beyond just the table. From his adventures with the late Alex Higgins to wild tales involving the Rolling Stones, White’s charisma and stories have made him a cherished figure in the snooker community. “He’s an inspiration,” Doherty concluded. “Everyone in the game knows what he’s done for snooker.”

White’s World Championship campaign ended in the second qualifying round. He pulled off a thrilling comeback in round one, overturning a 7-3 deficit to edge out Anton Kazakov 10-9 in a dramatic post-midnight finish. But he couldn’t maintain that momentum, falling 10-5 to Ashley Carty, who moved on to face world number 19 Pang Junxu.

Elsewhere in qualifying, Anthony Hamilton provided fireworks of his own in one of the most dramatic matches so far. After racing to a 9-0 lead against Steven Hallworth, Hamilton saw his advantage evaporate as Hallworth won eight straight frames and led 63-0 in frame 18. Yet Hamilton held his nerve, pulling off a sensational 69 clearance to win on the black and avoid a historic collapse. He now meets Matthew Selt in round three.

With drama like this, the World Championship qualifying rounds continue to showcase the grit, unpredictability, and heart that define snooker—and few embody those traits more than Jimmy White.