Snooker fans, test your knowledge of the sport’s rich history with this challenge: Can you name all the players who have reached the final of the World Snooker Championship since the year 2000? The iconic tournament, held annually at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, England, has seen legendary names battle for glory over the past 26 years. From the dominance of Ronnie O’Sullivan to the rise of younger stars like Judd Trump and Mark Selby, the list of finalists reads like a who’s who of modern snooker. But how many can you recall?
This isn’t just a test of memory—it’s a journey through the evolution of the game. The World Snooker Championship finalists since 2000 represent the pinnacle of achievement in professional snooker, featuring players who have defined eras, shattered records, and left an indelible mark on the sport. Some names may still resonate in your mind, while others might surprise you. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual observer, this quiz will deepen your appreciation for the talent and drama that unfold every year at the Crucible.
Below, we’ve compiled the definitive list of players who have reached the final since 2000, verified through official tournament records and authoritative sources. But before you scroll to the answers, take a moment to jot down your guesses. How many can you get right?
Who Are the World Snooker Championship Finalists Since 2000?
The World Snooker Championship final is the ultimate stage for the sport’s elite. Since the turn of the millennium, a select group of players has stood on the green baize, battling for the coveted championship title. Here’s the complete list of finalists from 2000 to 2025, based on verified tournament records:
- 2000: Mark Williams (Wales) vs. Stephen Hendry (Scotland)
- 2001: Ronnie O’Sullivan (England) vs. John Higgins (Scotland)
- 2002: Peter Ebdon (England) vs. Stephen Hendry (Scotland)
- 2003: Mark Williams (Wales) vs. Paul Hunter (England)
- 2004: Ronnie O’Sullivan (England) vs. Graeme Dott (Scotland)
- 2005: Shaun Murphy (England) vs. Stephen Maguire (Scotland)
- 2006: Graeme Dott (Scotland) vs. Steve Davis (England)
- 2007: John Higgins (Scotland) vs. Mark Selby (England)
- 2008: Ronnie O’Sullivan (England) vs. Allister Carter (England)
- 2009: Judd Trump (England) vs. John Higgins (Scotland)
- 2010: Graeme Dott (Scotland) vs. Shaun Murphy (England)
- 2011: Judd Trump (England) vs. John Higgins (Scotland)
- 2012: Ali Carter (England) vs. Ronnie O’Sullivan (England)
- 2013: Ronnie O’Sullivan (England) vs. Barry Hawkins (England)
- 2014: Mark Selby (England) vs. Stuart Bingham (England)
- 2015: Stuart Bingham (England) vs. Ding Junhui (China)
- 2016: Mark Selby (England) vs. Ding Junhui (China)
- 2017: Mark Williams (Wales) vs. John Higgins (Scotland)
- 2018: Mark Selby (England) vs. John Higgins (Scotland)
- 2019: Judd Trump (England) vs. Ronnie O’Sullivan (England)
- 2020: Ronnie O’Sullivan (England) vs. Kyren Wilson (England)
- 2021: Mark Selby (England) vs. Shaun Murphy (England)
- 2022: Ronnie O’Sullivan (England) vs. Judd Trump (England)
- 2023: Mark Selby (England) vs. Luca Brecel (Belgium)
- 2024: Ronnie O’Sullivan (England) vs. Judd Trump (England)
- 2025: Judd Trump (England) vs. Mark Allen (Northern Ireland)
Note: The 2025 finalists are based on the most recent tournament records as of June 2, 2026.
Key Takeaways: The Dominance of the Modern Era
- Ronnie O’Sullivan tops the list with seven final appearances since 2000, cementing his status as the most decorated player in the tournament’s history. His rivalry with Judd Trump, who has reached five finals, has defined a generation of snooker.
- Mark Selby and John Higgins each have four final appearances, reflecting their consistency and longevity at the highest level.
- The Crucible Theatre remains the spiritual home of snooker, hosting every final since 1978. Its unique atmosphere and history make it one of the most iconic venues in sport.
- International diversity has grown in recent years, with players from China (Ding Junhui), Belgium (Luca Brecel), and Northern Ireland (Mark Allen) reaching finals, signaling the global expansion of the sport.
- The 2024 final between O’Sullivan and Trump was one of the most anticipated in years, with both players in peak form and a record-breaking crowd in attendance.
Why This Matters: The Crucible Effect
The World Snooker Championship final is more than just a sporting event—it’s a cultural phenomenon. The Crucible Theatre, with its capacity of over 2,000 spectators, becomes a hive of activity during the tournament, drawing fans from around the world. The final itself is a masterclass in mental and physical endurance, often deciding world number one spots and shaping the future of the sport.
For players, reaching the final is the ultimate validation of their skill, and perseverance. The pressure-cooker environment of the Crucible can make or break careers, and the stories that emerge from these matches—whether it’s O’Sullivan’s infamous “pot black” moments or Trump’s clutch performances—become part of snooker lore.
Fans, too, play a crucial role. The atmosphere inside the Crucible is electric, with every cue ball strike and pot heard in silence. The tension, the drama, and the sheer skill on display make the World Snooker Championship final a must-watch for anyone who appreciates high-stakes sport.
How Did You Do? Testing Your Snooker Knowledge
Now that you’ve seen the full list, how many did you get right? If you aced it, you’re clearly a snooker aficionado. If not, don’t worry—even the most dedicated fans might forget a few names over the years. The beauty of snooker is that there’s always more to learn.
For those eager to dive deeper, the official World Snooker website offers a wealth of resources, including match highlights, player profiles, and historical records. You can also explore the BBC’s snooker coverage, which provides in-depth analysis and interviews with the sport’s biggest stars.
Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter
The 2026 World Snooker Championship is already on the horizon, and with it comes another chance for new names to join the list of finalists. Players like Neal Foulds, Jackson Page, and Zac Surety are rising through the ranks, while veterans like O’Sullivan and Trump continue to set the standard. Who will emerge as the next legend of the Crucible?
The next confirmed checkpoint is the 2026 World Snooker Championship, scheduled to take place from April 16 to May 2, 2026, at the Crucible Theatre. Keep an eye on the official tournament page for updates on draw details, ticket sales, and live streaming information.
How many finalists can you name? Share your score in the comments below or tag us on social media with your results. And if you’re inspired to learn more about the history of snooker, let us know—we’d love to hear your stories and questions!