Record breaking snooker star Wael Talaat dies aged 60 as tributes paid to ‘iconic determine’
Record-breaking African snooker icon Wael Talaat has died at the age of 60 following an illustrious career in the sport, with tributes paid to the “renowned player and true gentleman”
Egyptian snooker legend Wael Talaat has died at the age of 60 following a record-breaking career.
Talaat was regarded as one of the best snooker players to emerge from Africa. He holds a spot in the Guinness Book of World Record for being the first man to make a 83-point break in 6-red snooker.
The snooker icon won multiple titles in amateur finals and spent one season as a professional on the tour in 1998. His amateur titles include a record 3 ABSF African Snooker Championships. In 2022, the Egyptian was involved in the World Seniors Championship where he lost to Englishman Jimmy White in the last 16.
Throughout his snooker journey, Talaat took on big players including the likes of Ryan Day and Mark Selby. Following his death on 20 February, 2025, tributes have poured in across social media.
The governing body of non-professional snooker and billiards, IBSF, wrote: “With deep sadness, IBSF announces the passing of Wael Talaat, a renowned player and a true gentleman from Egypt. Wael was an iconic figure in Billiard Sports, not just in Egypt but across the entire African region.
He inspired many aspiring players who learned and excelled by watching his game and gaining knowledge from him, both directly and indirectly. His humble nature and exceptional skill made him a beloved player worldwide. Notably, he became the first player to score an 83-point break in 6-Red Snooker, earning him a place in the Guinness Book of Records.
“IBSF deeply mourns his loss and extends our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the entire snooker community in Africa and beyond. Rest in peace, Wael.”
World Seniors Snooker also shared a message on their Facebook page that read: “Everyone at World Seniors Snooker is incredibly saddened by the recent passing of Wael Talaat.
“The Egyptian competed at the Crucible Theatre during the 2022 World Seniors Championship – beating Maria Catalano 3-0 on debut. RIP Wael.”
