- Silvino Francisco was one of the most popular and successful players of the 80s.
- The South African is the only one born in Africa to have won a title in the billiards ranking
- Francis served three years in British prison for cannabis smuggling
Former snooker star Silvino Francisco, who won the 1985 British Open, has died aged 78.
The South African reached a career-high No. 10 ranking and is the only African-born player to win a snooker ranking event.
Francisco died on December 14, and the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA) confirmed the news on Saturday.
“WST (World Snooker Tour) and WPBSA extend our deepest condolences to Silvino's wife, June, and all his family and friends,” a statement read.
His British Open final victory over Kirk Stevens, broadcast on ITV, saw 15.5 million fans tune in and earned him a record £50,000 prize pool.
'The Silver Fish' enjoyed a long and illustrious career in the game, playing in the World Championship at the Crucible for eight consecutive years from 1982 and recording memorable victories over the likes of Jimmy White and Alex Higgins.
However, the latter part of Francisco's career proved to be a struggle. His world ranking fell to 166, he suffered with gambling and took a job in a fish and chip shop to make ends meet.
francis was He declared bankruptcy in 1996 and retired the following year before being arrested after admitting smuggling cannabis, with a street value of £155,000, through Dover.
Silvino Francisco, former British Open billiards champion, dies at 78
The South African remains the only African-born player to win a snooker ranking event
The sad news comes just weeks after the death of snooker legend Terry Griffiths.
Francisco served three years in prison for the crime before remaining in England and dedicating himself He dedicated himself to charitable initiatives, particularly those supporting disadvantaged youth and promoting the development of the next generation of snooker stars.
Heartfelt tributes poured in for the colorful 80s star following confirmation of his death.
'Silvino Francisco. Talented player. 1985 British Open Champion. Unfortunately, he took some wrong turns in life, but eventually found redemption. May God rest him,” wrote one fan on X.
'RIP Silvino Francisco. Thoughts with your family,' posted another.
'Another loss for the world of billiards in 2024. RIP. Silvino Francisco', reads another message.
The sad news comes just weeks after the death of snooker legend Terry Griffiths, who died aged 77 after a battle with dementia.