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Every pool fan has their own answer when the conversation turns to greatness.
Some will point to Efren Reyes and his unbelievable creativity. Others will argue that Willie Mosconi's records may never be matched. Then there are players like Earl Strickland, Shane Van Boening, and Francisco Bustamante, whose performances helped define entire eras of professional pool.
The best pool players of all time earned their place through championships, consistency, and moments that are still talked about in pool halls around the world. Here are the legends who left the biggest mark on the game.
What Makes the Best Pool Players in the World?
Ask ten billiards fans who the best pool players in the world are, and you'll probably get ten different answers.
Still, the greatest players tend to share a few things in common. They perform under pressure, stay consistent over long careers, and make difficult shots look routine. They also find ways to win against the strongest competition year after year.
World titles matter. Tournament victories matter. Longevity matters. But what separates the all-time greats is their ability to influence the game and inspire the players who come after them.
Top 10 Best Pool Players of All Time
1. Efren "Bata" Reyes (Philippines)
If there's one player who appears on almost every greatest-of-all-time list, it's Efren Reyes.
Nicknamed "The Magician," Reyes became famous for seeing shots that other players didn't even consider. His cue-ball control, creativity, and success across multiple disciplines made him one of the most respected professional pool players in history.
2. Willie Mosconi (USA)
Before television made pool stars famous, there was Willie Mosconi.
Known as "Mr. Pocket Billiards," Mosconi won 15 World Straight Pool Championships and set a record run of 526 consecutive balls in 1954. Decades later, that record still stands.
3. Earl "The Pearl" Strickland (USA)
Few players have brought more intensity to the table than Earl Strickland.
A multiple-time U.S. Open 9-Ball Champion and World Champion, Strickland combined incredible talent with a fiery competitive spirit that made him one of the sport's most memorable personalities.
4. Ralph Greenleaf (USA)
Long before modern professional tours existed, Ralph Greenleaf dominated the game.
He captured 14 World Straight Pool titles and helped popularize billiards during the early 1900s, becoming one of the first true stars of professional pool.
5. Mike Sigel (USA)
Nicknamed "Captain Hook," Mike Sigel built a reputation as one of the smartest players the game has ever seen.
With more than 100 professional titles and a place in the BCA Hall of Fame, Sigel's combination of strategy and shot-making earned him a spot among the best pool players ever.
6. Steve Mizerak (USA)
Steve Mizerak was a champion both on and off the table.
A four-time U.S. Open Straight Pool Champion, he helped bring pool into the mainstream through television appearances and commercials while continuing to compete at the highest level.
7. Johnny Archer (USA)
Known as "The Scorpion," Johnny Archer enjoyed one of the most successful careers in modern pool.
His World 9-Ball Championship, Mosconi Cup victories, and years of consistent excellence made him one of the greatest American pool players of all time.
8. Francisco Bustamante (Philippines)
Francisco Bustamante's powerful break and aggressive style made him a fan favorite around the world.
Known as "Django," he won a World Pool Championship and played a major role in establishing the Philippines as a global powerhouse in professional pool.
9. Shane Van Boening (USA)
When the conversation shifts to modern pool, Shane Van Boening's name quickly comes up.
Nicknamed "The South Dakota Kid," Van Boening has collected multiple U.S. Open 9-Ball titles and remains one of the most accomplished players of his generation.
10. Ronnie O'Sullivan (England)
Ronnie O'Sullivan is best known for snooker, but his influence on cue sports is impossible to overlook.
"The Rocket" owns multiple World Snooker Championships and is widely considered one of the most naturally gifted cue-sport players ever.
Best Female Pool Players of All Time
The history of professional pool wouldn't be complete without recognizing the women who helped elevate the sport and inspire future generations.
Jeanette "The Black Widow" Lee (USA)
Jeanette Lee became one of the most recognizable faces in all of billiards.
Her success on the table, combined with her charisma and competitive spirit, helped bring women's professional pool to a wider audience. For many fans, she remains the most famous female pool player ever.
Allison Fisher (England)
Known as "The Duchess of Doom," Allison Fisher dominated women's pool for years.
After a highly successful snooker career, she transitioned to pool and went on to win dozens of WPBA titles, earning a reputation as one of the best female pool players of all time.
Karen Corr (Northern Ireland)
Karen Corr built an impressive resume through world titles, major tournament wins, and a legendary rivalry with Allison Fisher.
Her consistency and versatility made her one of the most respected competitors in women's billiards.
Jasmin Ouschan (Austria)
Jasmin Ouschan represents the modern generation of elite players.
A World 10-Ball Champion and winner of numerous international events, she continues to compete at the highest level across multiple disciplines.
What Country Has the Best Pool Players?
Ask a room full of pool fans which country produces the best players and you'll usually hear the same two answers: the United States and the Philippines.
The United States gave the game legends like Willie Mosconi, Earl Strickland, Johnny Archer, and Shane Van Boening. The Philippines produced Efren Reyes and Francisco Bustamante, two players whose creativity and success changed the sport forever.
Countries such as Taiwan, Germany, Austria, and England have also produced world-class champions and continue to contribute to the growth of professional pool.
Inspired by the Pros?
One thing all of these players have in common is time at the table. Thousands and thousands of hours spent practicing, competing, and refining their game.
Most of us aren't chasing world championships, but having a quality table at home is still one of the best ways to improve your skills and enjoy the game with friends and family.
Explore our collection of pool tables and create a space where your own billiards stories can begin.