Steve Davis Snooker Career, Age, Family, and Net Worth

Steve Davis is one of the most celebrated figures in snooker history. He was the face of the sport throughout the 1980s and remains one of its most respected ambassadors. With six World Championships, dozens of major titles, and years at the top of the world rankings, he shaped the way snooker was played and viewed.

Early Life and Family

Steve Davis was born on 22 August 1957 in Plumstead, southeast London. He came from a modest background and grew up in a supportive household. His father, Bill Davis, played a key role in his development. 

Bill was a keen amateur snooker player who introduced Steve to the game at an early age. Steve’s fascination with snooker grew stronger when his father gave him Joe Davis’s book How I Play Snooker. Steve absorbed every lesson from the book and began practicing with relentless dedication.

As a teenager, Davis spent countless hours in local clubs refining his skills. He was not flashy but showed an early ability to remain calm under pressure. By the time he reached adulthood, he was already known in local circles as a serious player. His dedication and talent made him stand out. At 18, his life changed when he met Barry Hearn, who recognized his potential and became his manager.

Partnership with Barry Hearn

Barry Hearn’s arrival marked a turning point in Davis’s career. Hearn had ambitions to take snooker into the mainstream, and Davis was the perfect player to represent that vision. Together, they professionalized the sport. Hearn secured sponsorships, arranged televised matches, and marketed Davis as the face of snooker. 

This partnership not only elevated Davis’s career but also transformed snooker from a club game into a global television spectacle. Their collaboration lasted decades and proved crucial to Davis’s success.

Snooker Career

Steve Davis turned professional in 1978. His debut came in the Canadian Open, and soon after appeared on the TV program Pot Black, which introduced him to a national audience. Although he did not win immediately, his precision and calmness impressed many. By 1980, he was already climbing the ranks and showing he could compete with the best.

In 1980, Davis won the UK Championship, his first major title. This victory marked the beginning of a golden era. In 1981, he captured his first World Snooker Championship at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield. His win made headlines and announced the arrival of a new champion.

The 1980s were defined by Steve Davis. He won the World Championship six times in 1981, 1983, 1984, 1987, 1988, and 1989. For seven consecutive seasons, from 1983 to 1990, he was ranked world number one. During this time, he also collected six UK Championship titles and three Masters crowns. His success was unmatched, and he became the first snooker player to earn £1 million in prize money.

Rivalries and Famous Matches

One of his most famous matches was the 1985 World Championship final against Dennis Taylor. This final, remembered for its tense black-ball finish, was watched by 18.5 million viewers in the UK. Although Davis lost, the match remains the most iconic moment in snooker history. His rivalry with Taylor, along with others like Jimmy White, helped boost snooker’s popularity.

In the 1990s, new players like Stephen Hendry and John Higgins emerged. Davis continued to compete, winning his last ranking title at the 1995 Welsh Open. In 1997, he claimed the Masters at age 39, showing he could still win against younger opponents. Even into the 2000s, Davis played with determination. 

His most remarkable late-career performance came in 2010, when at 52 he defeated defending champion John Higgins in the World Championship. He reached the quarter-finals, proving his lasting quality.

Retirement

After nearly four decades, Steve Davis officially retired in 2016. His retirement speech at the Crucible was emotional, as he received a standing ovation from fans. His departure marked the end of an era, but his influence remained strong.

Playing Style and Personality

Steve Davis was known for his methodical, precise, and tactical style. He was not flamboyant but relied on discipline and consistency. His calm manner allowed him to stay composed in high-pressure situations. His ability to control matches with patience made him one of the most difficult players to beat.

Davis’s personality was serious and composed. This often led to him being portrayed as emotionless. On the satirical TV show Spitting Image, he was humorously nicknamed “Interesting Steve Davis.” Despite the jokes, fans respected his professionalism. His other nicknames included “The Nugget” and “Ginger Magician.”

Personal Life

In 1990, Davis married Judith Greig, a flight attendant. Together, they had two children, Greg and Jack. However, the marriage ended in divorce in 2005. Afterward, Davis entered a long-term relationship with Jeannie Nash.

His eldest son, Greg, was born in 1991. His younger son, Jack, arrived in 1993. Greg once tried to qualify for professional snooker through Q-School in 2012 but was unsuccessful. Both sons have lived mostly private lives away from the spotlight.

Age

As of 2025, Steve Davis is 67 years old. Despite retiring from professional play, he remains active. He continues to commentate on snooker, perform music with his band, and make public appearances. His schedule shows that retirement has not slowed him down.

Net Worth

Steve Davis earned millions during his playing career. Prize money, sponsorship deals, and television appearances all contributed to his wealth. Today, his net worth is estimated at around $10 million. Some sources suggest higher figures, but the most credible estimates remain close to this range. His continued work in commentary, writing, and music also provides income.

Conclusion

Steve Davis is more than a champion. He is a pioneer, a leader, and a role model. His story began with a father’s encouragement and grew into one of the greatest careers in snooker history. His six world titles, countless victories, and calm style made him legendary.

Beyond the game, his contributions as a commentator, musician, and author show his versatility. At 67, Davis continues to inspire by proving that passion and dedication can keep life exciting long after the trophies have been won.