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{{short description|English former professional snooker player}} {{short description|English former professional snooker player}}
{{about|the English snooker player|other people}} {{about|the English snooker player|other people}}
{{good article}} {{Featured article}}
{{Use Oxford spelling|date=April 2020}} {{Use Oxford spelling|date=April 2020}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2023}} {{Use dmy dates|date=August 2023}}
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==Early life== ==Early life==
Paul Alan Hunter was born on 14&nbsp;October 1978 in ],<ref name="Independent Obituary" /><ref name="Times obituary pg. 1" /> England, where he attended the ].<ref name="The Daily Telegraph Obituary" /> Hunter played alongside his father, Alan, at a young age and won many amateur junior events, including the English Doubles Championship, which he won aged 14 with fellow Yorkshireman Richard Brooke.<ref name="Times obituary pg. 1" /> After leaving school at 14 to spend more time playing snooker,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theargus.co.uk/news/5101205.snooker-hunter-bids-to-retain-title/|title=Snooker: Hunter bids to retain title|date=7 November 2003|website=The Argus}}</ref><ref name=Guardianb>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2004/apr/12/snooker|title=Interview Paul Hunter|date=12 April 2004|newspaper=The Guardian}}</ref> he often travelled to ] to practise alongside professional players such as ].<ref name="Independent Obituary" /> Hunter was the runner-up at the 1995 ], losing 7–8 to ] in the final.<ref>{{Cite news |title=English Open re-named for Hunter |website=BBC |date=19 April 2007 |access-date=2 July 2020 |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/other_sports/snooker/6573139.stm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070713142501/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/other_sports/snooker/6573139.stm |archive-date=13 July 2007 |url-status=live }}</ref> He made his professional debut in July 1995 at age 16, with the help of his mentors Johnson and ].<ref name="The Daily Telegraph Obituary" /> Paul Alan Hunter was born on 14&nbsp;October 1978 in ],<ref name="Independent Obituary" /><ref name="Times obituary pg. 1" /> England, where he attended the ].<ref name="The Daily Telegraph Obituary" /> Hunter played alongside his father, Alan, at a young age and won many amateur junior events, including the English Doubles Championship, which he won aged 14 with fellow Yorkshireman Richard Brooke.<ref name="Times obituary pg. 1" /> After leaving school at 14 to spend more time playing snooker,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theargus.co.uk/news/5101205.snooker-hunter-bids-to-retain-title/ |title=Snooker: Hunter bids to retain title |date=7 November 2003 |website=The Argus |archive-date=7 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241207213121/https://www.theargus.co.uk/news/5101205.snooker-hunter-bids-to-retain-title/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="guardian interview" /> he often travelled to ] to practise alongside professional players such as ].<ref name="Independent Obituary" /> Hunter was the runner-up at the 1995 ], losing 7{{nbnd}}8 to ] in the final.<ref>{{Cite news |title=English Open re-named for Hunter |work=BBC Sport |date=19 April 2007 |access-date=2 July 2020 |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/other_sports/snooker/6573139.stm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070713142501/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/other_sports/snooker/6573139.stm |archive-date=13 July 2007 |url-status=live }}</ref> He made his professional debut in July 1995 at age 16, with the help of his mentors Johnson and ].<ref name="The Daily Telegraph Obituary" />


== Career == == Career ==
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The following year, Hunter won his first ranking tournament at the ]; after eliminating ] 5{{nbnd}}3, ] 5{{nbnd}}2, ] 5{{nbnd}}3, ] 5{{nbnd}}4, Alan McManus 5{{nbnd}}3, and ] 6{{nbnd}}1, he defeated ] 9{{nbnd}}5 in the final. Hunter trailed 2{{nbnd}}4 but won seven {{cuegloss|frames}} from the next eight to win the match and the Welsh Open title.<ref name="OGxAy" /> He also reached the semi-finals of the ], defeating both ] and Davis, before losing to Higgins.<ref name="XzmmA" /> For 1998, he was named the Snooker Writers Association's Young Player of the Year.<ref name="The Daily Telegraph Obituary" /><ref name="Independent Obituary" /> The following year, Hunter won his first ranking tournament at the ]; after eliminating ] 5{{nbnd}}3, ] 5{{nbnd}}2, ] 5{{nbnd}}3, ] 5{{nbnd}}4, Alan McManus 5{{nbnd}}3, and ] 6{{nbnd}}1, he defeated ] 9{{nbnd}}5 in the final. Hunter trailed 2{{nbnd}}4 but won seven {{cuegloss|frames}} from the next eight to win the match and the Welsh Open title.<ref name="OGxAy" /> He also reached the semi-finals of the ], defeating both ] and Davis, before losing to Higgins.<ref name="XzmmA" /> For 1998, he was named the Snooker Writers Association's Young Player of the Year.<ref name="The Daily Telegraph Obituary" /><ref name="Independent Obituary" />


Hunter played in the main stage of the ] for the first time in ], after qualifying against ].<ref name="Global Snooker1999">{{cite web |title=World Championship 1999 |url=http://www.global-snooker.com/professional-snooker-tournaments-archive-world-championship-1999.asp |publisher=Global Snooker |access-date=3 April 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110403031746/http://www.global-snooker.com/professional-snooker-tournaments-archive-world-championship-1999.asp |archive-date=3 April 2011 |url-status=dead }}</ref> He then lost 8{{nbnd}}10 in the first round to Hendry, the eventual champion.<ref name="dbWhb" /> Hunter's performance that season elevated him to 12th in the ], allowing him automatic qualification into the final stages of ranking events for the first time.<ref name=Guardian/><ref name="Ranking History" /> He retained his good form for the ],<ref name="Ranking History" /> reaching at least the quarter-final stage in six tournaments: he was a runner-up at the ],<ref name="P4NsF" /> a semi-finalist at the ] and ],<ref name="s5pNz" /><ref name="WTeUn" /> and a quarter-finalist at the ] and ].<ref name="LCWie" /><ref name="spfb1" /> Hunter played in the main stage of the ] for the first time in ], after qualifying against ].<ref name="Global Snooker1999">{{cite web |title=World Championship 1999 |url=http://www.global-snooker.com/professional-snooker-tournaments-archive-world-championship-1999.asp |website=global-snooker.com |access-date=3 April 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110403031746/http://www.global-snooker.com/professional-snooker-tournaments-archive-world-championship-1999.asp |archive-date=3 April 2011 |url-status=dead }}</ref> He then lost 8{{nbnd}}10 in the first round to Hendry, the eventual champion.<ref name="dbWhb" /> Hunter's performance that season elevated him to 12th in the ], allowing him automatic qualification into the final stages of ranking events for the first time.<ref name=Guardian/><ref name="Ranking History" /> He retained his good form for the ],<ref name="Ranking History" /> reaching at least the quarter-final stage in five ranking tournaments: he was a runner-up at the ],<ref name="P4NsF" /> a semi-finalist at the ] and ],<ref name="s5pNz" /><ref name="WTeUn" /> and a quarter-finalist at the ] and ].<ref name="LCWie" /><ref name="spfb1" />


=== Masters winner (2001–2004) === === Masters winner (2001–2004) ===
Being in the top 16 players in the world rankings, Hunter gained entry into the invitational ]. At the ], Hunter eliminated the defending champion ] 6–5 in the first round, Ebdon 6–3 in the quarter-finals and Hendry 6–4 in the semi-finals.<ref name="pfm3X" /><ref name="Benson & Hedges Masters 2001" /> In the final, Hunter met ]. Hunter trailed 3–7, but won seven out of the next nine frames to win 10–9.<ref name="Benson & Hedges Masters 2001" /><ref name="qRbQh" /> After winning the championship, Hunter claimed that he and his fiancée had had sex during the {{cuegloss|mid-session interval}} when he was trailing 2{{nbnd}}6, which had caused him to play significantly better.<ref name="Independent Obituary" /><ref name="guardian interview" /> Ranked amongst the world's top 16 players in ], Hunter gained entry into the invitational ]. At the ], he eliminated the defending champion ] 6{{nbnd}}5 in the first round, Peter Ebdon 6{{nbnd}}3 in the quarter-finals, and Stephen Hendry 6{{nbnd}}4 in the semi-finals.<ref name="pfm3X" /><ref name="Benson & Hedges Masters 2001" /> He then met ] in the final; Hunter trailed 3{{nbnd}}7 but won seven of the next nine frames to win 10{{nbnd}}9.<ref name="Benson & Hedges Masters 2001" /><ref name="qRbQh" /> After winning the Masters title, Hunter claimed that he and his fiancée had had sex during the {{cuegloss|mid-session interval}} when he was trailing 2{{nbnd}}6, which had caused him to play significantly better.<ref name="Independent Obituary" /><ref name="guardian interview" />


At the ], he defeated ] 6–3, Ebdon 6–5 and Alan McManus 6–5 to reach the final, where he met Williams.<ref name="2002M" /> Hunter lost the first five frames of the final, but won the match and tournament on a {{cuegloss|deciding frame}} 10–9.<ref name="2002M" /> He was only the third player to retain the Masters, following ] and Hendry.<ref name="Xu4QK" /> He won his second ranking event the same year, defeating ] 9–2 in the final to win the ].<ref name="ZiCGX" /> At the ], Hunter lost to ] in the first round.<ref name="tGqw0" /> In November, Hunter defeated ] 9–4 in the final of the ] to win his third ranking event championship.<ref name="nB9BC" /> As defending Masters champion, Hunter progressed to the semi-finals of the ] but lost 3–6 to Williams.<ref name="qO23n" /> At the ], he defeated ] 6{{nbnd}}3, Ebdon 6{{nbnd}}5 and Alan McManus 6{{nbnd}}5 to reach the final, where he met Mark Williams.<ref name="2002M" /> Despite losing the first five frames of the final, Hunter won the match and tournament on a {{cuegloss|deciding frame}} 10{{nbnd}}9.<ref name="2002M" /> He was only the third player to retain the Masters title, after ] (1985{{nbnd}}1986) and Hendry (1989{{nbnd}}1993).<ref name="Xu4QK" /> Hunter won his second ranking event the same year, defeating ] 9{{nbnd}}2 in the final to win the ].<ref name="ZiCGX" /> He lost to ] in the first round of the ].<ref name="tGqw0" /> In November, he defeated ] 9{{nbnd}}4 in the final of the ] to win the third ranking event of his career.<ref name="nB9BC" /> As the defending champion at the ], Hunter progressed to the semi-finals but lost 3{{nbnd}}6 to Williams.<ref name="qO23n" />


Hunter progressed past the second round of the World Championship for the first time in ]. He defeated ] 10–5, Stevens 13–6 and defending champion Peter Ebdon 13–12 to reach the semi-finals.<ref name="0XMrr" /><ref name="1X1rP" /> In the best-of-33 frames semi-final, Hunter established an overnight lead of 15{{nbnd}}9 over opponent Doherty. Despite leading by six frames, he won only one of the remaining nine, and lost 16–17.<ref name="ryoNy" /> Years later, the ] later broadcast the highlights of the match alongside other memorable matches in place of the ] when that event was postponed because of the ].<ref name="bbc._BBCS" /><ref name="bbc._BBCt" /> Despite the loss, he earned a place in the world's top eight in the ] for the first time in his career, having been ranked number nine for the previous two seasons.<ref name="Ranking History" /> Hunter progressed past the second round of the World Championship for the first time in ]. He defeated ] 10{{nbnd}}5, Stevens 13{{nbnd}}6 and defending champion Ebdon 13{{nbnd}}12 to reach the semi-finals.<ref name="0XMrr" /><ref name="1X1rP" /> In the best-of-33 frames semi-final, Hunter established an overnight lead of 15{{nbnd}}9 over opponent Doherty. Despite leading by six frames, he won only one of the remaining nine, and lost 16{{nbnd}}17.<ref name="ryoNy" /> Years later, the ] broadcast the highlights of the match alongside other memorable matches in place of the ], which was postponed because of the ].<ref name="bbc._BBCS" /><ref name="bbc._BBCt" /> Hunter's progress in the World Championship helped earn him a place in the world's top eight in the ] for the first time in his career, having been ranked number nine for the previous two seasons.<ref name="Ranking History" />


In ], Hunter won the ] for the third time in four years. He trailed ] in the final throughout the entire match, being behind 1–6, 2–7, 6–8 and 7–9. However, Hunter won the final three frames to win the match. Hunter made five ]s in the match.<ref name="AgAdE" /><ref name="7lHom" /> The match was voted as one of the best matches of all time by ] in 2020.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.eurosport.com/snooker/snooker-news-ronnie-o-sullivan-on-his-favourite-rivalry-and-modelling-his-game-on-steve-davis_sto7727643/story.shtml|title = The Debate: What are the greatest Triple Crown matches ever? |work=Eurosport |date=28 July 2020}}</ref> Hunter reached his last ranking event final of his career at the ], but lost 7{{nbnd}}9 against Jimmy White.<ref name="IjnCo" /> At the ] event, he made the highest {{cuegloss|break}} of his career, a 146 in a 3–5 loss to ].<ref name="Week 4">{{cite web |title=February 21–22, 2004 |url=http://www.matchroomsport.com/snook5_info.htm |work=matchroomsport.com |publisher=Matchroom Sport |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040606134918/http://www.matchroomsport.com/snook5_info.htm |archive-date=6 June 2004}}</ref> He reached the second round of the ], where he lost 12–13 against Stevens, despite leading 10–6 and 12–10.<ref name="WMXBt" /> In ], Hunter won the ] for the third time in four years. He trailed ] throughout the final, with scores of 1{{nbnd}}6, 2{{nbnd}}7, 6{{nbnd}}8, and 7{{nbnd}}9, but took the remaining three frames to win 10{{nbnd}}9. Hunter compiled five ]s in the match.<ref name="AgAdE" /><ref name="7lHom" /> The 2004 Masters final was voted one of the best matches of all time by ] in 2020.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.eurosport.com/snooker/snooker-news-ronnie-o-sullivan-on-his-favourite-rivalry-and-modelling-his-game-on-steve-davis_sto7727643/story.shtml|title = The Debate: What are the greatest Triple Crown matches ever? |work=Eurosport |date=28 July 2020}}</ref> Hunter reached his last ranking event final at the ], but lost 7{{nbnd}}9 against Jimmy White.<ref name="IjnCo" /> At the ] event, he made the highest {{cuegloss|break}} of his career, a 146 in a 3{{nbnd}}5 loss to ].<ref name="Week 4">{{cite web |title=February 21–22, 2004 |url=http://www.matchroomsport.com/snook5_info.htm |work=matchroomsport.com |publisher=Matchroom Sport |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040606134918/http://www.matchroomsport.com/snook5_info.htm |archive-date=6 June 2004}}</ref> He reached the second round of the ], where he lost 12{{nbnd}}13 against Stevens, despite leading 10{{nbnd}}6 and 12{{nbnd}}10.<ref name="WMXBt" />


Hunter began the ] by reaching the semi-finals of the ], where he lost 3–6 to O'Sullivan.<ref name="6SfIC" /> Hunter won the ] competition ] in 2004 winning the final 4–2 over Stevens. The event was later renamed in his honour.<ref>{{cite web|title=Paul Hunter Classic History|url=http://www.global-snooker.com/Paul-Hunter-Classic-Historic-Results.asp|publisher=Global Snooker|access-date=17 April 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120609230133/http://www.global-snooker.com/Paul-Hunter-Classic-Historic-Results.asp|archive-date=9 June 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> He reached the quarter-finals of the ]<ref name="Mnv4q" /> just days after being diagnosed with cancer.<ref name=BBC20061009>{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/other_sports/snooker/6035879.stm |title=Hunter loses battle with cancer |date=9 October 2006 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=9 February 2021}}</ref> His career-high ranking was world number four during ],<ref name="cajt.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk" /> which dropped to number five ].<ref name="Ranking History" /> Hunter began the ] by reaching the semi-finals of the ], where he lost 3{{nbnd}}6 to O'Sullivan.<ref name="6SfIC" /> He won the 2004 ], a ] competition, defeating Stevens 4{{nbnd}}2 in the final; the event was later renamed in Hunter's honour.<ref name="jC9Sx" /> He reached the quarter-finals of the ] in March 2005,<ref name="Mnv4q" /> just days after being diagnosed with cancer.<ref name=BBC20061009>{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/other_sports/snooker/6035879.stm |title=Hunter loses battle with cancer |date=9 October 2006 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=9 February 2021 |archive-date=20 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241220085608/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/other_sports/snooker/6035879.stm |url-status=live}}</ref> His career-high ranking was world number four during ],<ref name="cajt.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk" /> which dropped to number five ].<ref name="Ranking History" />


=== Later years and illness (2005–2006) === === Later years and illness (2005–2006) ===
In April 2005, Hunter was diagnosed with malignant ]s in his stomach,<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2006/oct/10/snooker.simonburnton|title=Paul Hunter loses battle with cancer aged 27|first=Simon|last=Burnton|date=10 October 2006|newspaper=The Guardian}}</ref> a rare disease, the cause of which is unknown.<ref name="uQLBh" /> A spokesperson for the ] (WPBSA) said at the time: "Paul will undergo treatment to cure himself of this illness. He would like to reassure his fans and supporters that, as with his snooker career, he is tenacious and positive in his fight against the disease."<ref name="rte" /> Hunter received ] for his illness.<ref name="Yorkshire Post obituary" /> In April 2005, Hunter was diagnosed with malignant ]s in his stomach,<ref name="Guardian" /> a rare disease, the cause of which is unknown.<ref name="uQLBh" /> A spokesperson for the ] (WPBSA) said at the time: "Paul will undergo treatment to cure himself of this illness. He would like to reassure his fans and supporters that, as with his snooker career, he is tenacious and positive in his fight against the disease."<ref name="rte" /> Hunter received ] for his illness.<ref name="Yorkshire Post obituary" />


Hunter returned to the circuit for the start of the ] but lost to ] in the first round of the ].<ref name="Utfye" /> Hunter's next match of the season was at the ] against ], in which Hunter came back from 6–8 down to win the match 9–8.<ref name="2gobD" /> Despite this, Hunter lost in the next round 2–9 against eventual champion ].<ref name="GQE29" /> He lost in the first round of the ] 5–10 to ], which was his last professional match.<ref name="Independent Obituary" /> Hunter returned to the circuit for the start of the ] but lost to ] in the first round of the ].<ref name="Utfye" /> Hunter's next match of the season was at the ] against ], in which Hunter came back from 6{{nbnd}}8 down to win the match 9{{nbnd}}8.<ref name="2gobD" /> Despite this, Hunter lost in the next round 2{{nbnd}}9 against eventual champion ].<ref name="GQE29" /> He lost in the first round of the ] 5–10 to ], which was his last professional match.<ref name="Independent Obituary" />


Slipping from 5th to 34th in the ],<ref name="Ranking History" /><ref name="Yorkshire Post obituary" /><ref name="Times obituary pg. 2" /> Hunter admitted he played worse than the previous year and confirmed that he had been in continuous pain.<ref name="apvFw" /> Following a members' vote on 27 July 2006, the WPBSA announced its rules would be changed to allow Hunter to sit out the entire ] with his world ranking frozen at 34. Hunter intended to devote the year to treatment for his cancer.<ref name="cajt.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk" /><ref name="The Daily Telegraph Obituary" /> Slipping from 5th to 34th in the ],<ref name="Ranking History" /><ref name="Yorkshire Post obituary" /><ref name="Times obituary pg. 2" /> Hunter admitted he played worse than the previous year and confirmed that he had been in continuous pain.<ref name="apvFw" /> Following a members' vote on 27 July 2006, the WPBSA announced its rules would be changed to allow Hunter to sit out the entire ] with his world ranking frozen at 34. Hunter intended to devote the year to treatment for his cancer.<ref name="cajt.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk" /><ref name="The Daily Telegraph Obituary" />
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Hunter died on 9&nbsp;October 2006, aged 27, at the ] in ].<ref name=BBC20061009 /><ref name="Guardian" /> Prior to the ] matches on 12&nbsp;October 2006, players, referees and commentators stood for a ] to remember Hunter.<ref name="breakingnews.ie" /> His funeral took place on 19&nbsp;October 2006 at ].<ref name="Paul Hunter Profile" /> Many snooker players attended the ceremony, and his best friend, Matthew Stevens, was a ] at the service.<ref name="Paul Hunter Profile" /> Hunter died on 9&nbsp;October 2006, aged 27, at the ] in ].<ref name=BBC20061009 /><ref name="Guardian" /> Prior to the ] matches on 12&nbsp;October 2006, players, referees and commentators stood for a ] to remember Hunter.<ref name="breakingnews.ie" /> His funeral took place on 19&nbsp;October 2006 at ].<ref name="Paul Hunter Profile" /> Many snooker players attended the ceremony, and his best friend, Matthew Stevens, was a ] at the service.<ref name="Paul Hunter Profile" />


Following his death, fellow professionals Stephen Hendry, Mark Williams, Jimmy White, Matthew Stevens and Ken Doherty led immediate calls for the ] trophy to be named in Hunter's memory.<ref name="Times20061011">{{cite web|url=https://www.thetimes.com/article/snooker-appropriate-tribute-to-hunter-high-on-agenda-9v2x9s55mqp |title=Snooker: Appropriate tribute to Hunter high on agenda |last=Yates |first=Phil |date=11 October 2006 |access-date=18 December 2024 |work=The Times |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/stars-support-masters-tribute-7198045.html |title=Stars support Masters tribute |work=Evening Standard |date=<!--12 April 2012 update--> |orig-date=<!--12 January 2006 in source code--> |access-date=15 December 2024 |url-status=live |archive-date=15 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241215145308/https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/stars-support-masters-tribute-7198045.html}}</ref> The idea was ruled out at the time, but in 2007 the then-non-ranking ], a tournament first won by Hunter in 2004, was renamed the Paul Hunter Classic in his honour.<ref name="BBC6232319">{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/other_sports/snooker/6232319.stm |title=Hunter Masters tribute ruled out |last=Harlow |first=Phil |date=5 January 2007 |access-date=18 December 2024 |work=BBC Sport |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070208105328/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/other_sports/snooker/6232319.stm |archive-date=8 February 2007}}</ref><ref name="j08W2" /> The same year, the amateur English Open tournament was renamed the Paul Hunter English Open.<ref name="ppexc" /> On 20&nbsp;April 2016, the World Snooker chairman ] committed to renaming the Masters trophy in Hunter's honour, stating that the organisation had "messed up" by not doing so sooner.<ref name="trophy" /> Following his death, fellow professionals Stephen Hendry, Mark Williams, Jimmy White, Matthew Stevens and Ken Doherty led immediate calls for the ] trophy to be named in Hunter's memory.<ref name="Times20061011">{{cite web|url=https://www.thetimes.com/article/snooker-appropriate-tribute-to-hunter-high-on-agenda-9v2x9s55mqp |title=Snooker: Appropriate tribute to Hunter high on agenda |last=Yates |first=Phil |date=11 October 2006 |access-date=18 December 2024 |work=The Times |url-access=subscription |archive-date=20 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241220085317/https://www.thetimes.com/article/snooker-appropriate-tribute-to-hunter-high-on-agenda-9v2x9s55mqp |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/stars-support-masters-tribute-7198045.html |title=Stars support Masters tribute |work=Evening Standard |date=<!--12 April 2012 update--> |orig-date=<!--12 January 2006 in source code--> |access-date=15 December 2024 |url-status=live |archive-date=15 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241215145308/https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/stars-support-masters-tribute-7198045.html}}</ref> The idea was ruled out at the time, but in 2007 the then-non-ranking ], a tournament first won by Hunter in 2004, was renamed the Paul Hunter Classic in his honour.<ref name="BBC6232319">{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/other_sports/snooker/6232319.stm |title=Hunter Masters tribute ruled out |last=Harlow |first=Phil |date=5 January 2007 |access-date=18 December 2024 |work=BBC Sport |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070208105328/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/other_sports/snooker/6232319.stm |archive-date=8 February 2007}}</ref><ref name="j08W2" /> The same year, the amateur English Open tournament was renamed the Paul Hunter English Open.<ref name="ppexc" /> On 20&nbsp;April 2016, the World Snooker chairman ] committed to renaming the Masters trophy in Hunter's honour, stating that the organisation had "messed up" by not doing so sooner.<ref name="trophy" />


Hunter was posthumously awarded the ] in 2006, and his widow Lindsey accepted the award on his behalf.<ref name="PS87m" /> A ] called The Paul Hunter Foundation was set up after his death with the "specific aim of giving disadvantaged, able bodied and disabled youngsters an opportunity to play snooker".<ref name="Paul Hunter Foundation" /> Hunter was posthumously awarded the ] in 2006, and his widow Lindsey accepted the award on his behalf.<ref name="PS87m" /> A ] called The Paul Hunter Foundation was set up after his death with the "specific aim of giving disadvantaged, able bodied and disabled youngsters an opportunity to play snooker".<ref name="Paul Hunter Foundation" />


Noted for his "flamboyant" and "fluent" style by snooker commentator ],<ref name=Golden>{{cite magazine|first=Clive |last=Everton |title=Paul Hunter: Denied His Golden Future |magazine=Snooker Scene |date=November 2005 |page=4}}</ref><ref name=tribute>{{cite magazine|title=Tributes |magazine=Snooker Scene |date=November 2005 |page=7}}</ref> Hunter was also described as being unphased by bad luck or playing conditions by commentator Phil Yates,<ref>{{cite news|first=Phil |last=Yates |title=Heartfelt tributes as man with the golden smile is mourned |newspaper=The Times |date=10 October 2006 |url=https://www.thetimes.com/article/snooker-heartfelt-tributes-as-man-with-the-golden-smile-is-mourned-k29cvlb88hm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241215093818/https://www.thetimes.com/article/snooker-heartfelt-tributes-as-man-with-the-golden-smile-is-mourned-k29cvlb88hm |archive-date=15 December 2024 |url-status=live |url-access=subscription}}</ref> and Barry Hearn said that Hunter's "mercurial talent" was a "sad loss" to the sport.<ref name="trophy" /> Over his 11-year professional career, Hunter's total prize money was £1.53&nbsp;million.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/news/2006/oct/11/guardianobituaries.obituaries1|title=Paul Hunter|first=Clive|last=Everton|date=11 October 2006|newspaper=The Guardian}}</ref> He compiled 114 century breaks in professional competition,<ref name="ybVQW" /> including a high break of 146.<ref name="breakingnews.ie" /> Noted for his "flamboyant" and "fluent" style by snooker commentator ],<ref name=Golden>{{cite magazine|first=Clive |last=Everton |title=Paul Hunter: Denied His Golden Future |magazine=Snooker Scene |date=November 2005 |page=4}}</ref><ref name=tribute>{{cite magazine|title=Tributes |magazine=Snooker Scene |date=November 2005 |page=7}}</ref> Hunter was also described as being unfazed by bad luck or playing conditions by commentator Phil Yates,<ref>{{cite news|first=Phil |last=Yates |title=Heartfelt tributes as man with the golden smile is mourned |newspaper=The Times |date=10 October 2006 |url=https://www.thetimes.com/article/snooker-heartfelt-tributes-as-man-with-the-golden-smile-is-mourned-k29cvlb88hm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241215093818/https://www.thetimes.com/article/snooker-heartfelt-tributes-as-man-with-the-golden-smile-is-mourned-k29cvlb88hm |archive-date=15 December 2024 |url-status=live |url-access=subscription}}</ref> and Barry Hearn said that Hunter's "mercurial talent" was a "sad loss" to the sport.<ref name="trophy" /> Over his 11-year professional career, Hunter's total prize money was £1.53&nbsp;million.<ref name="apvFw" /> He compiled 114 century breaks in professional competition,<ref name="ybVQW" /> including a high break of 146.<ref name="breakingnews.ie" />


== Personal life == == Personal life ==
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==Performance and rankings timeline== ==Performance and rankings timeline==
{| class="wikitable" style="font-size:85%;" {| class="wikitable" style="font-size:85%;"
|+Career event results<ref name="CUESPORT">{{cite book |last1=Hayton |first1=Eric N. |last2=Dee |first2=John |year=2004 |title=The CueSport Book of Professional Snooker: The Complete Record & History |publisher=Rose Villa Publications |isbn=978-0-9548549-0-4 |pages=555–557}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Paul Hunter |url=https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?player=1191&season=-1 |website=Snooker.org |access-date=14 December 2024}}</ref> |+Career event results<ref name="CUESPORT">{{cite book |last1=Hayton |first1=Eric N. |last2=Dee |first2=John |year=2004 |title=The CueSport Book of Professional Snooker: The Complete Record & History |publisher=Rose Villa Publications |isbn=978-0-9548549-0-4 |pages=555–557}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Paul Hunter |url=https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?player=1191&season=-1 |website=Snooker.org |access-date=14 December 2024 |archive-date=22 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230322225120/https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?player=1191&season=-1 |url-status=live}}</ref>
|- bgcolor="#efefef" |- bgcolor="#efefef"
! '''Tournaments''' ! '''Tournaments'''
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| style="background:#98FB98"|Winner | style="background:#98FB98"|Winner
| 3. | 3.
| ] | ]
| ] | ]
| {{flagicon|ENG}} {{sortname|Ian|McCulloch|Ian McCulloch (snooker player)}} | {{flagicon|ENG}} {{sortname|Ian|McCulloch|Ian McCulloch (snooker player)}}
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<ref name="2002M">{{cite web |title=Masters (2002) |url=https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?event=1626 |website=Snooker.org |access-date=17 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215225034/https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?event=1626 |archive-date=15 February 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref> <ref name="2002M">{{cite web |title=Masters (2002) |url=https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?event=1626 |website=Snooker.org |access-date=17 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215225034/https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?event=1626 |archive-date=15 February 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref>
<ref name="bbc._BBCS">{{Cite web |title=Snooker: World Championship, Crucible Classics, Ken Doherty v Paul Hunter, 2003 |work=BBC |access-date=30 April 2020 |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b07950nm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160723035343/http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b07950nm |archive-date=23 July 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref> <ref name="bbc._BBCS">{{Cite web |title=Snooker: World Championship, Crucible Classics, Ken Doherty v Paul Hunter, 2003 |work=BBC |access-date=30 April 2020 |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b07950nm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160723035343/http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b07950nm |archive-date=23 July 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref>
<ref name="bbc._BBCt">{{Cite news |title=BBC to show classic Crucible matches |work=BBC Sport |access-date=30 April 2020 |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/snooker/52231678 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200427224700/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/snooker/52231678 |archive-date=27 April 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref> <ref name="bbc._BBCt">{{Cite news |title=World Snooker Championship: BBC to show classic Crucible matches |work=BBC Sport |access-date=30 April 2020 |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/snooker/52231678 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200427224700/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/snooker/52231678 |archive-date=27 April 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref>
<ref name="rte">{{Cite news |url=http://www.rte.ie/sport/2005/0406/hunter.html |title=Hunter diagnosed with cancer |access-date=13 April 2007 |publisher=RTÉ Sport |orig-date=6 April 2005 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050406171425/http://www.rte.ie/sport/2005/0406/hunter.html |archive-date=6 April 2005 |url-status=live}}</ref> <ref name="rte">{{Cite news |url=http://www.rte.ie/sport/2005/0406/hunter.html |title=Hunter diagnosed with cancer |access-date=13 April 2007 |work=RTÉ Sport |orig-date=6 April 2005 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050406171425/http://www.rte.ie/sport/2005/0406/hunter.html |archive-date=6 April 2005 |url-status=live}}</ref>
<ref name="Yorkshire Post obituary">{{cite web |title=Snooker star Paul Hunter dies at 27 |url=http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/news/around-yorkshire/local-stories/snooker_star_paul_hunter_dies_at_27_1_2393686 |work=Yorkshire Post |date=10 October 2006 |access-date=29 March 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121011162610/http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/news/around-yorkshire/local-stories/snooker_star_paul_hunter_dies_at_27_1_2393686 |archive-date=11 October 2012 |url-status=dead}}</ref> <ref name="Yorkshire Post obituary">{{cite web |title=Snooker star Paul Hunter dies at 27 |url=http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/news/around-yorkshire/local-stories/snooker_star_paul_hunter_dies_at_27_1_2393686 |work=Yorkshire Post |date=10 October 2006 |access-date=29 March 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121011162610/http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/news/around-yorkshire/local-stories/snooker_star_paul_hunter_dies_at_27_1_2393686 |archive-date=11 October 2012 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
<ref name="Times obituary pg. 2">{{cite news |title=Paul Hunter (obituary, page&nbsp;2)|url=http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/obituaries/article667716.ece?token=null&offset=12&page=2 |work=The Times |access-date=28 October 2010 |location=London |date=11 October 2006 |first=Sadie |last=Gray |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110812200715/http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/obituaries/article667716.ece?token=null&offset=12&page=2 |archive-date=12 August 2011 |url-status=dead}}</ref> <ref name="Times obituary pg. 2">{{cite news |title=Paul Hunter (obituary, page&nbsp;2)|url=http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/obituaries/article667716.ece?token=null&offset=12&page=2 |work=The Times |access-date=28 October 2010 |location=London |date=11 October 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110812200715/http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/obituaries/article667716.ece?token=null&offset=12&page=2 |archive-date=12 August 2011 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
<ref name="The Daily Telegraph Obituary">{{cite news |title=Obituaries: Paul Hunter |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/obituaries/1531098/Paul-Hunter.html |work=The Daily Telegraph |access-date=17 November 2010 |location=London |date=11 October 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101208074501/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/obituaries/1531098/Paul-Hunter.html |archive-date=8 December 2010 |url-status=live}}</ref> <ref name="The Daily Telegraph Obituary">{{cite news |title=Obituaries: Paul Hunter |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/obituaries/1531098/Paul-Hunter.html |work=The Daily Telegraph |access-date=17 November 2010 |location=London |date=11 October 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101208074501/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/obituaries/1531098/Paul-Hunter.html |archive-date=8 December 2010 |url-status=live}}</ref>
<ref name="Guardian">{{Cite news |title=Snooker: Paul Hunter loses battle with cancer aged 27 |last=Burnton |first=Simon |work=The Guardian |date=10 October 2006 |access-date=30 April 2020 |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2006/oct/10/snooker.simonburnton |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170123051835/https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2006/oct/10/snooker.simonburnton |archive-date=23 January 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref> <ref name="Guardian">{{Cite news |title=Snooker: Paul Hunter loses battle with cancer aged 27 |last=Burnton |first=Simon |work=The Guardian |date=10 October 2006 |access-date=30 April 2020 |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2006/oct/10/snooker.simonburnton |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170123051835/https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2006/oct/10/snooker.simonburnton |archive-date=23 January 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref>
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<ref name="pfm3X">{{cite news |title=Hunter bags Hendry scalp |work=BBC Sport |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/in_depth/2001/benson_and_hedges_masters/1163718.stm |access-date=14 December 2008 |date=10 February 2001 |location=London |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040613053502/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/in_depth/2001/benson_and_hedges_masters/1163718.stm |archive-date=13 June 2004 |url-status=live}}</ref> <ref name="pfm3X">{{cite news |title=Hunter bags Hendry scalp |work=BBC Sport |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/in_depth/2001/benson_and_hedges_masters/1163718.stm |access-date=14 December 2008 |date=10 February 2001 |location=London |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040613053502/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/in_depth/2001/benson_and_hedges_masters/1163718.stm |archive-date=13 June 2004 |url-status=live}}</ref>
<ref name="qRbQh">{{cite news |title=Dream come true for Master Hunter |work=BBC Sport |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/in_depth/2001/benson_and_hedges_masters/1165767.stm |access-date=14 December 2008 |date=12 February 2001 |location=London |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040720003804/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/in_depth/2001/benson_and_hedges_masters/1165767.stm |archive-date=20 July 2004 |url-status=live}}</ref> <ref name="qRbQh">{{cite news |title=Dream come true for Master Hunter |work=BBC Sport |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/in_depth/2001/benson_and_hedges_masters/1165767.stm |access-date=14 December 2008 |date=12 February 2001 |location=London |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040720003804/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/in_depth/2001/benson_and_hedges_masters/1165767.stm |archive-date=20 July 2004 |url-status=live}}</ref>
<ref name="Xu4QK">{{cite news |title=Hunter bags second Masters |work=BBC Sport Media |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/other_sports/snooker/benson_and_hedges_masters_2002/1813295.stm |access-date=14 December 2008 |date=11 February 2002 |location=London |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040214150125/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/other_sports/snooker/benson_and_hedges_masters_2002/1813295.stm |archive-date=14 February 2004 |url-status=live}}</ref> <ref name="Xu4QK">{{cite news |title=Hunter bags second Masters |work=BBC Sport |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/other_sports/snooker/benson_and_hedges_masters_2002/1813295.stm |access-date=14 December 2008 |date=11 February 2002 |location=London |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040214150125/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/other_sports/snooker/benson_and_hedges_masters_2002/1813295.stm |archive-date=14 February 2004 |url-status=live}}</ref>
<ref name="ZiCGX">{{cite web |title=Regal Welsh Open 2002 |url=http://www.snooker.org/trn/0102/wo2002_res.shtml |website=Snooker.org |access-date=17 November 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100429150131/http://www.snooker.org/trn/0102/wo2002_res.shtml |archive-date=29 April 2010 |url-status=live}}</ref> <ref name="ZiCGX">{{cite web |title=Regal Welsh Open 2002 |url=http://www.snooker.org/trn/0102/wo2002_res.shtml |website=Snooker.org |access-date=17 November 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100429150131/http://www.snooker.org/trn/0102/wo2002_res.shtml |archive-date=29 April 2010 |url-status=live}}</ref>
<ref name="tGqw0">{{cite web |title=Embassy World Championship (2002) |url=https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?event=1582 |website=Snooker.org |access-date=17 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110200743/https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?event=1582 |archive-date=10 January 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref> <ref name="tGqw0">{{cite web |title=Embassy World Championship (2002) |url=https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?event=1582 |website=Snooker.org |access-date=17 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110200743/https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?event=1582 |archive-date=10 January 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref>
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<ref name="qO23n">{{cite web |title=Masters (2003) |url=https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?event=1624 |website=Snooker.org |access-date=17 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215225118/https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?event=1624 |archive-date=15 February 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref> <ref name="qO23n">{{cite web |title=Masters (2003) |url=https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?event=1624 |website=Snooker.org |access-date=17 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215225118/https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?event=1624 |archive-date=15 February 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref>
<ref name="0XMrr">{{cite web |title=Embassy World Championship (2003) |url=https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?event=1566 |website=Snooker.org |access-date=17 December 2024 |archive-date=10 January 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110200812/https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?event=1566 |url-status=live }}</ref> <ref name="0XMrr">{{cite web |title=Embassy World Championship (2003) |url=https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?event=1566 |website=Snooker.org |access-date=17 December 2024 |archive-date=10 January 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110200812/https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?event=1566 |url-status=live }}</ref>
<ref name="1X1rP">{{cite news |first=Mark |last=Orlovac |title=Hunter edges out Ebdon |work=BBC Sport Media |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/other_sports/snooker/2986677.stm |access-date=18 December 2008 |date=1 May 2003 |location=London |archive-date=15 September 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200915220438/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/other_sports/snooker/2986677.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> <ref name="1X1rP">{{cite news |first=Mark |last=Orlovac |title=Hunter edges out Ebdon |work=BBC Sport |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/other_sports/snooker/2986677.stm |access-date=18 December 2008 |date=1 May 2003 |location=London |archive-date=15 September 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200915220438/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/other_sports/snooker/2986677.stm |url-status=live }}</ref>
<ref name="ryoNy">{{cite news |first=Dan |last=Warren |title=Doherty wins Crucible epic |work=BBC Sport Media |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/other_sports/snooker/2997531.stm |access-date=18 December 2008 |date=3 May 2003 |location=London |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090116020254/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/other_sports/snooker/2997531.stm |archive-date=16 January 2009 |url-status=live}}</ref> <ref name="ryoNy">{{cite news |first=Dan |last=Warren |title=Doherty wins Crucible epic |work=BBC Sport |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/other_sports/snooker/2997531.stm |access-date=18 December 2008 |date=3 May 2003 |location=London |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090116020254/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/other_sports/snooker/2997531.stm |archive-date=16 January 2009 |url-status=live}}</ref>
<ref name="AgAdE">{{cite web |title=Masters (2004) |website=Snooker.org |url=https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?event=1623 |access-date=17 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215225021/https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?event=1623 |archive-date=15 February 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref> <ref name="AgAdE">{{cite web |title=Masters (2004) |website=Snooker.org |url=https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?event=1623 |access-date=17 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215225021/https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?event=1623 |archive-date=15 February 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref>
<ref name="7lHom">{{cite news |first=Clive |last=Jones |title=Hunter claims Masters epic |work=BBC Sport |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/other_sports/snooker/3471197.stm |access-date=13 December 2008 |date=9 February 2004 |location=London |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120713130818/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/other_sports/snooker/3471197.stm |archive-date=13 July 2012 |url-status=live}}</ref> <ref name="7lHom">{{cite news |first=Clive |last=Jones |title=Hunter claims Masters epic |work=BBC Sport |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/other_sports/snooker/3471197.stm |access-date=13 December 2008 |date=9 February 2004 |location=London |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120713130818/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/other_sports/snooker/3471197.stm |archive-date=13 July 2012 |url-status=live}}</ref>
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<ref name="uQLBh">{{cite web |title=Neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) |url=http://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancerinformation/cancertypes/neuroendocrine/overview.aspx |publisher=MacMillan Cancer Support |access-date=20 April 2016 |archive-date=10 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210110155726/https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/neuroendocrine-tumours-nets |url-status=live }}</ref> <ref name="uQLBh">{{cite web |title=Neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) |url=http://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancerinformation/cancertypes/neuroendocrine/overview.aspx |publisher=MacMillan Cancer Support |access-date=20 April 2016 |archive-date=10 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210110155726/https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/neuroendocrine-tumours-nets |url-status=live }}</ref>
<ref name="Utfye">{{cite web |title=Grand Prix (2005) |url=https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?event=1034 |website=Snooker.org |access-date=17 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110200835/https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?event=1034 |archive-date=10 January 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref> <ref name="Utfye">{{cite web |title=Grand Prix (2005) |url=https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?event=1034 |website=Snooker.org |access-date=17 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110200835/https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?event=1034 |archive-date=10 January 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref>
<ref name="2gobD">{{cite web |title=Brave Hunter is winner again |url=http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Snooker%3A+bRAVE+paul+IS+winner+again.-a0139541511 |publisher=Daily Mirror |access-date=29 March 2011 |archive-date=10 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210110155733/https://www.thefreelibrary.com/Snooker%3A+bRAVE+paul+IS+winner+again.-a0139541511 |url-status=live }}</ref> <ref name="2gobD">{{cite web |title=Brave Hunter is winner again |url=http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Snooker%3A+bRAVE+paul+IS+winner+again.-a0139541511 |work=Daily Mirror |access-date=29 March 2011 |archive-date=10 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210110155733/https://www.thefreelibrary.com/Snooker%3A+bRAVE+paul+IS+winner+again.-a0139541511 |url-status=live }}</ref>
<ref name="GQE29">{{cite web |title=Travis Perkins UK Championship (2005) |url=https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?event=1038 |website=Snooker.org |access-date=17 December 2024 |archive-date=10 January 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110200825/https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?event=1038 |url-status=live }}</ref> <ref name="GQE29">{{cite web |title=Travis Perkins UK Championship (2005) |url=https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?event=1038 |website=Snooker.org |access-date=17 December 2024 |archive-date=10 January 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110200825/https://www.snooker.org/res/index.asp?event=1038 |url-status=live }}</ref>
<ref name="Tp6vH">{{cite web |title=Baby delight for cancer hit snooker ace |url=https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/baby-delight-for-cancer-hit-snooker-571194 |work=Daily Mirror |date=27 December 2005 |access-date=28 October 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121020181732/http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/baby-delight-for-cancer-hit-snooker-571194 |archive-date=20 October 2012 |url-status=live}}</ref> <ref name="Tp6vH">{{cite web |last=Byrne |first=Paul |title=Baby delight for cancer hit snooker ace |url=https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/baby-delight-for-cancer-hit-snooker-571194 |work=Daily Mirror |date=27 December 2005 |access-date=28 October 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121020181732/http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/baby-delight-for-cancer-hit-snooker-571194 |archive-date=20 October 2012 |url-status=live}}</ref>
<ref name="apvFw">{{cite news |title=Obituary: Paul Hunter |url=https://www.theguardian.com/news/2006/oct/11/guardianobituaries.obituaries1 |work=The Guardian |access-date=28 October 2010 |location=London |first=Clive |last=Everton |date=11 October 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140926020028/http://www.theguardian.com/news/2006/oct/11/guardianobituaries.obituaries1 |archive-date=26 September 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref> <ref name="apvFw">{{cite news |title=Obituary: Paul Hunter |url=https://www.theguardian.com/news/2006/oct/11/guardianobituaries.obituaries1 |work=The Guardian |access-date=28 October 2010 |location=London |first=Clive |last=Everton |date=11 October 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140926020028/http://www.theguardian.com/news/2006/oct/11/guardianobituaries.obituaries1 |archive-date=26 September 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref>
<ref name="j08W2">{{cite web |title=Paul Hunter Classic |url=https://snookerstars.de/index.php/fdfdfdfd |language=de |website=SnookerStars.de |access-date=18 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200422132359/https://snookerstars.de/index.php/fdfdfdfd |archive-date=22 April 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref> <ref name="j08W2">{{cite web |title=Paul Hunter Classic |url=https://snookerstars.de/index.php/fdfdfdfd |language=de |website=SnookerStars.de |access-date=18 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200422132359/https://snookerstars.de/index.php/fdfdfdfd |archive-date=22 April 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref>
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<ref name="Turner Masters">{{cite web |last=Turner |first=Chris |title=The Masters |url=http://www.cajt.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/masters.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120107160419/http://www.cajt.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/masters.html |archive-date=7 January 2012 |publisher=Chris Turner's Snooker Archive |access-date=18 March 2011}}</ref> <ref name="Turner Masters">{{cite web |last=Turner |first=Chris |title=The Masters |url=http://www.cajt.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/masters.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120107160419/http://www.cajt.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/masters.html |archive-date=7 January 2012 |publisher=Chris Turner's Snooker Archive |access-date=18 March 2011}}</ref>
<ref name="sZkfF">{{cite web |last=Turner |first=Chris |title=Players Championship |url=http://www.cajt.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/playchamp.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120216155022/http://www.cajt.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/playchamp.html |archive-date=16 February 2012 |publisher=Chris Turner'S Snooker Archive |access-date=29 March 2011}}</ref> <ref name="sZkfF">{{cite web |last=Turner |first=Chris |title=Players Championship |url=http://www.cajt.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/playchamp.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120216155022/http://www.cajt.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/playchamp.html |archive-date=16 February 2012 |publisher=Chris Turner'S Snooker Archive |access-date=29 March 2011}}</ref>
<ref name="jC9Sx">{{cite web |title=Paul Hunter Classic History |url=http://www.global-snooker.com/Paul-Hunter-Classic-Historic-Results.asp |publisher=Global Snooker |access-date=29 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120609230133/http://www.global-snooker.com/Paul-Hunter-Classic-Historic-Results.asp |archive-date=9 June 2012}}</ref> <ref name="jC9Sx">{{cite web |title=Paul Hunter Classic History |url=http://www.global-snooker.com/Paul-Hunter-Classic-Historic-Results.asp |work=Global Snooker |access-date=29 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120609230133/http://www.global-snooker.com/Paul-Hunter-Classic-Historic-Results.asp |archive-date=9 June 2012}}</ref>
<ref name="wJXSq">{{cite web |last=Turner |first=Chris |title=English Amateur Championship |url=http://www.cajt.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/Amateur.html#English |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120512004350/http://www.cajt.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/Amateur.html#English |archive-date=12 May 2012 |work=cajt.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk |publisher=Chris Turner's Snooker Archive |access-date=29 March 2011}}</ref> <ref name="wJXSq">{{cite web |last=Turner |first=Chris |title=English Amateur Championship |url=http://www.cajt.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/Amateur.html#English |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120512004350/http://www.cajt.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/Amateur.html#English |archive-date=12 May 2012 |work=cajt.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk |publisher=Chris Turner's Snooker Archive |access-date=29 March 2011}}</ref>
}} }}

Latest revision as of 19:22, 2 January 2025

English former professional snooker player This article is about the English snooker player. For other people, see Paul Hunter (disambiguation).

Paul Hunter
Born(1978-10-14)14 October 1978
Leeds, England
Died9 October 2006(2006-10-09) (aged 27)
Huddersfield, England
Sport country England
NicknameBeckham of the Baize
Professional1995–2006
Highest ranking4 (2004–05)
Century breaks114
Tournament wins
Ranking3

Paul Alan Hunter (14 October 1978 – 9 October 2006) was an English professional snooker player. He was a three-time Masters champion, winning the event in 2001, 2002, and 2004; on all three occasions, he recovered from a deficit in the final to claim the title on a deciding frame. He also won three ranking events: the Welsh Open in 1998 and 2002, and the 2002 British Open.

Hunter was diagnosed with neuroendocrine tumours in March 2005, but he continued to play for several months after receiving the diagnosis. He died shortly before his 28th birthday in October 2006. A tournament in Fürth, Germany, was renamed the Paul Hunter Classic in his memory, and he was posthumously awarded the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Helen Rollason Award. In April 2016, the Masters trophy was renamed the Paul Hunter Trophy. He made 114 century breaks in professional competition, the highest of these a 146 in the 2004 Premier League tournament. During the 2004‍–‍05 season, Hunter attained a career-high ranking of world number four.

Early life

Paul Alan Hunter was born on 14 October 1978 in Leeds, England, where he attended the Cardinal Heenan High School. Hunter played alongside his father, Alan, at a young age and won many amateur junior events, including the English Doubles Championship, which he won aged 14 with fellow Yorkshireman Richard Brooke. After leaving school at 14 to spend more time playing snooker, he often travelled to Bradford to practise alongside professional players such as Joe Johnson. Hunter was the runner-up at the 1995 English Amateur Championship, losing 7‍–‍8 to David Gray in the final. He made his professional debut in July 1995 at age 16, with the help of his mentors Johnson and Jimmy Michie.

Career

Early career (1995–2000)

Four months after making his professional debut, Hunter reached the second round of the 1995 UK Championship by defeating Alan McManus, the sixth highest ranked player in the snooker world rankings, 9‍–‍4. Aged 17, he reached the semi-finals of the 1996 Welsh Open, the youngest player to appear at this stage of a ranking event, by defeating the world champion Stephen Hendry in the last 16. He also reached the quarter-finals of the 1996 UK Championship, where he completed a whitewash of Willie Thorne 9‍–‍0, and bested James Wattana 9‍–‍5 and Terry Murphy 9‍–‍7, before losing 5‍–‍9 against Hendry, the eventual winner of the event. Due in part to this performance, Hunter was awarded a wildcard to play at the 1997 Masters, where he lost 1‍–‍5 against Mark Williams in the first round. He reached the last 16 stage of the 1997 Grand Prix, but was later disqualified for testing positive for cannabis. He was fined £4,550 and docked the entirety of the ranking points he had earned at the event.

The following year, Hunter won his first ranking tournament at the 1998 Welsh Open; after eliminating Paul Wykes 5‍–‍3, Neal Foulds 5‍–‍2, Steve Davis 5‍–‍3, Nigel Bond 5‍–‍4, Alan McManus 5‍–‍3, and Peter Ebdon 6‍–‍1, he defeated John Higgins 9‍–‍5 in the final. Hunter trailed 2‍–‍4 but won seven frames from the next eight to win the match and the Welsh Open title. He also reached the semi-finals of the 1998 UK Championship, defeating both Jimmy White and Davis, before losing to Higgins. For 1998, he was named the Snooker Writers Association's Young Player of the Year.

Hunter played in the main stage of the World Snooker Championship for the first time in 1999, after qualifying against Euan Henderson. He then lost 8‍–‍10 in the first round to Hendry, the eventual champion. Hunter's performance that season elevated him to 12th in the 1999‍–‍2000 world rankings, allowing him automatic qualification into the final stages of ranking events for the first time. He retained his good form for the 2000‍–‍01 season, reaching at least the quarter-final stage in five ranking tournaments: he was a runner-up at the 2001 Welsh Open, a semi-finalist at the British Open and Scottish Open, and a quarter-finalist at the Grand Prix and China Open.

Masters winner (2001–2004)

Ranked amongst the world's top 16 players in 2000‍–‍01, Hunter gained entry into the invitational Masters tournament. At the 2001 Masters, he eliminated the defending champion Matthew Stevens 6‍–‍5 in the first round, Peter Ebdon 6‍–‍3 in the quarter-finals, and Stephen Hendry 6‍–‍4 in the semi-finals. He then met Fergal O'Brien in the final; Hunter trailed 3‍–‍7 but won seven of the next nine frames to win 10‍–‍9. After winning the Masters title, Hunter claimed that he and his fiancée had had sex during the mid-session interval when he was trailing 2‍–‍6, which had caused him to play significantly better.

At the following year's Masters, he defeated Stephen Lee 6‍–‍3, Ebdon 6‍–‍5 and Alan McManus 6‍–‍5 to reach the final, where he met Mark Williams. Despite losing the first five frames of the final, Hunter won the match and tournament on a deciding frame 10‍–‍9. He was only the third player to retain the Masters title, after Cliff Thorburn (1985‍–‍1986) and Hendry (1989‍–‍1993). Hunter won his second ranking event the same year, defeating Ken Doherty 9‍–‍2 in the final to win the 2002 Welsh Open. He lost to Quinten Hann in the first round of the 2002 World Championship. In November, he defeated Ian McCulloch 9‍–‍4 in the final of the 2002 British Open to win the third ranking event of his career. As the defending champion at the 2003 Masters, Hunter progressed to the semi-finals but lost 3‍–‍6 to Williams.

Hunter progressed past the second round of the World Championship for the first time in 2003. He defeated Ali Carter 10‍–‍5, Stevens 13‍–‍6 and defending champion Ebdon 13‍–‍12 to reach the semi-finals. In the best-of-33 frames semi-final, Hunter established an overnight lead of 15‍–‍9 over opponent Doherty. Despite leading by six frames, he won only one of the remaining nine, and lost 16‍–‍17. Years later, the BBC broadcast the highlights of the match alongside other memorable matches in place of the 2020 World Championship, which was postponed because of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United Kingdom. Hunter's progress in the World Championship helped earn him a place in the world's top eight in the 2003‍–‍04 rankings for the first time in his career, having been ranked number nine for the previous two seasons.

In 2003–04, Hunter won the Masters for the third time in four years. He trailed Ronnie O'Sullivan throughout the final, with scores of 1‍–‍6, 2‍–‍7, 6‍–‍8, and 7‍–‍9, but took the remaining three frames to win 10‍–‍9. Hunter compiled five century breaks in the match. The 2004 Masters final was voted one of the best matches of all time by Eurosport in 2020. Hunter reached his last ranking event final at the 2004 Players Championship, but lost 7‍–‍9 against Jimmy White. At the 2004 Premier League Snooker event, he made the highest break of his career, a 146 in a 3‍–‍5 loss to Marco Fu. He reached the second round of the 2004 World Championship, where he lost 12‍–‍13 against Stevens, despite leading 10‍–‍6 and 12‍–‍10.

Hunter began the 2004–05 season by reaching the semi-finals of the Grand Prix, where he lost 3‍–‍6 to O'Sullivan. He won the 2004 Fürth Grand Prix, a pro-am competition, defeating Stevens 4‍–‍2 in the final; the event was later renamed in Hunter's honour. He reached the quarter-finals of the 2005 China Open in March 2005, just days after being diagnosed with cancer. His career-high ranking was world number four during 2004‍–‍05, which dropped to number five the following season.

Later years and illness (2005–2006)

In April 2005, Hunter was diagnosed with malignant neuroendocrine tumours in his stomach, a rare disease, the cause of which is unknown. A spokesperson for the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA) said at the time: "Paul will undergo treatment to cure himself of this illness. He would like to reassure his fans and supporters that, as with his snooker career, he is tenacious and positive in his fight against the disease." Hunter received chemotherapy for his illness.

Hunter returned to the circuit for the start of the 2005–06 season but lost to Rory McLeod in the first round of the Grand Prix. Hunter's next match of the season was at the 2005 UK Championship against Jamie Burnett, in which Hunter came back from 6‍–‍8 down to win the match 9‍–‍8. Despite this, Hunter lost in the next round 2‍–‍9 against eventual champion Ding Junhui. He lost in the first round of the 2006 World Championship 5–10 to Neil Robertson, which was his last professional match.

Slipping from 5th to 34th in the 2006‍–‍07 rankings, Hunter admitted he played worse than the previous year and confirmed that he had been in continuous pain. Following a members' vote on 27 July 2006, the WPBSA announced its rules would be changed to allow Hunter to sit out the entire 2006–07 snooker season with his world ranking frozen at 34. Hunter intended to devote the year to treatment for his cancer.

Death and legacy

Hunter died on 9 October 2006, aged 27, at the Kirkwood Hospice in Huddersfield. Prior to the Premier League Snooker matches on 12 October 2006, players, referees and commentators stood for a moment of silence to remember Hunter. His funeral took place on 19 October 2006 at Leeds Parish Church. Many snooker players attended the ceremony, and his best friend, Matthew Stevens, was a pallbearer at the service.

Following his death, fellow professionals Stephen Hendry, Mark Williams, Jimmy White, Matthew Stevens and Ken Doherty led immediate calls for the Masters trophy to be named in Hunter's memory. The idea was ruled out at the time, but in 2007 the then-non-ranking Fürth German Open, a tournament first won by Hunter in 2004, was renamed the Paul Hunter Classic in his honour. The same year, the amateur English Open tournament was renamed the Paul Hunter English Open. On 20 April 2016, the World Snooker chairman Barry Hearn committed to renaming the Masters trophy in Hunter's honour, stating that the organisation had "messed up" by not doing so sooner.

Hunter was posthumously awarded the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Helen Rollason Award in 2006, and his widow Lindsey accepted the award on his behalf. A registered charity called The Paul Hunter Foundation was set up after his death with the "specific aim of giving disadvantaged, able bodied and disabled youngsters an opportunity to play snooker".

Noted for his "flamboyant" and "fluent" style by snooker commentator Clive Everton, Hunter was also described as being unfazed by bad luck or playing conditions by commentator Phil Yates, and Barry Hearn said that Hunter's "mercurial talent" was a "sad loss" to the sport. Over his 11-year professional career, Hunter's total prize money was £1.53 million. He compiled 114 century breaks in professional competition, including a high break of 146.

Personal life

Hunter married Lindsey Fell, a beauty therapist, in August 2004 in Jamaica. The couple had one daughter, born on 26 December 2005. After his death, Lindsey wrote the memoir Unbreakable: My Life with Paul – a Story of Extraordinary Courage and Love, covering his snooker career, his personal life and his death. Hunter became known as the "Beckham of the Baize", a reference to football player David Beckham.

Performance and rankings timeline

Career event results
Tournaments 1995–
96 		1996–
97 		1997–
98 		1998–
99 		1999–
00 		2000–
01 		2001–
02 		2002–
03 		2003–
04 		2004–
05 		2005–
06
Rankings 78 43 24 12 14 9 9 8 4 5
Ranking tournaments
Grand Prix LQ 1R 3R 2R 3R QF 3R QF 3R SF 1R
UK Championship 2R QF 1R SF 2R 2R 3R 3R QF 3R 3R
Malta Cup LQ LQ NH 2R Not Held 1R QF 2R 1R 1R
Welsh Open SF LQ W 2R 3R F W SF QF 2R 2R
China Open Not Held NR 1R 1R QF 2R Not Held QF 1R
World Championship LQ LQ LQ 1R 1R 2R 1R SF 2R 1R 1R
Non-ranking tournaments
Pot Black Tournament Not Held SF
Premier League A A A A A A A A RR RR A
The Masters A WR A A 1R W W SF W 1R 1R
Former ranking tournaments
Asian Classic LQ LQ Tournament Not Held
German Open LQ LQ LQ NR Tournament Not Held
Malta Grand Prix Non-Ranking Event 1R NR Tournament Not Held
Thailand Masters 1R 1R LQ 1R 2R 1R 2R Tournament Not Held
Scottish Open LQ LQ 3R QF 1R SF 2R 2R F Not Held
British Open LQ LQ LQ 2R 3R SF 2R W QF 2R NH
Irish Masters Non-Ranking Event SF 2R 2R NH
Former non-ranking tournaments
Pontins Professional A A A QF SF Tournament Not Held
Malta Grand Prix A A A A R RR Tournament Not Held
Champions Cup A A A A A A RR Tournament Not Held
Irish Masters A A A A A A 1R Ranking Event NH
Scottish Masters A A A 1R LQ A 1R QF Not Held
Performance Table Legend
LQ lost in the qualifying draw #R lost in the early rounds of the tournament
(WR = Wildcard round, RR = Round robin) 		QF lost in the quarter-finals
SF lost in the semi–finals F lost in the final W won the tournament
A did not participate in the tournament
NH / Not Held event was not held.
NR / Non-Ranking Event event is/was no longer a ranking event.
R / Ranking Event event is/was a ranking event.
  1. New players on the tour do not have a ranking.
  2. The event was also called the LG Cup (2001/2002-2003/2004)
  3. The event was also called the European Open (1995/1996-1996/1997 and 2001/2002-2003/2004) and Irish Open (1998/1999)
  4. The event was also called the China International (1998/1999)
  5. The event also ran under the name Thailand Classic (1995/1996)
  6. The event also ran under the name Thailand Open (1995/1996–1996/1997)
  7. The event ran under different names such as International Open (1995/1996-1996/1997) and Players Championship (2003/2004)

Career finals

Ranking finals: 5 (3 titles)

Outcome No. Year Championship Opponent in the final Score Ref.
Winner 1. 1998 Welsh Open Scotland John Higgins 9–5
Runner-up 1. 2001 Welsh Open Republic of Ireland Ken Doherty 2–9
Winner 2. 2002 Welsh Open (2) Republic of Ireland Ken Doherty 9–7
Winner 3. 2002 British Open England Ian McCulloch 9–4
Runner-up 2. 2004 Players Championship England Jimmy White 7–9

Non-ranking finals: 3 (3 titles)

Legend
The Masters (3–0)
Outcome No. Year Championship Opponent in the final Score Ref.
Winner 21. 2001 The Masters Republic of Ireland Fergal O'Brien 10–9
Winner 2. 2002 The Masters (2) Wales Mark Williams 10–9
Winner 3. 2004 The Masters (3) England Ronnie O'Sullivan 10–9

Pro-am finals: 1 (1 title)

Outcome No. Year Championship Opponent in the final Score Ref.
Winner 1. 2004 Grand Prix Fürth Wales Matthew Stevens 4–2

Amateur finals: 6 (4 titles)

Outcome No. Year Championship Opponent in the final Score Ref.
Winner 1. 1992 Pontins Junior Championship England David Gray 3–0
Runner-up 1. 1992 British Under-18 Championship England Stephen Lee 2–4
Winner 2. 1993 Pontins Junior Championship Wales Matthew Stevens 4–2
Winner 3. 1993 Pontins Star of the Future England John Whitty 3–2
Winner 4. 1995 English Under-17 Championship England David Gray 5–4
Runner-up 2. 1995 English Amateur Championship England David Gray 7–8

References

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Further reading

  • Hunter, Lindsey (2007). Unbreakable: My life with Paul – A story of extraordinary courage and love. London: HarperCollins. ISBN 978-0-00-726090-4.

External links

Masters champions
Paul Hunter Classic
Pro–am events
PTC Tour (minor-ranking)
Ranking events
Non-ranking events
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