Interactive Visualisation

Interactive Viz Link

This is one of my favourite visualisations i have published in the last couple of years, not because I think I nailed it, but the story is so good it offers the chance to build and showcase a narrative giving a viz a chance to shine.

The topic isn’t for everyone I know that – a Snooker World Championship from back in 1985 – 😴💤💤💤. But hear me out, it was an epic match and lends itself so well to a data story. And we all love stories right!!!!

The set up

In the archives of snooker history, few matches are as iconic and memorable as the 1985 Snooker World Championship final. This legendary encounter between Dennis Taylor and Steve Davis is etched in the minds of snooker enthusiasts for its dramatic conclusion and sheer sporting brilliance.

The hook

The 1985 Snooker World Championship Final was a nail-biting contest that took place at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, England. Dennis Taylor, the underdog from Northern Ireland, faced off against Steve Davis, the dominant force in snooker at the time. The final frame of this epic match often referred to as the “Black Ball Final,” is the stuff of legend.

Rising insights and suspense

The drama unfolded in the final frame with the score tied at 17-17. Both players had displayed exceptional skill and nerves of steel throughout the match, but it all came down to the final black ball. The tension in the Crucible Theatre was palpable as Taylor and Davis battled for the championship.

You ready? Aha

The “Black Ball Frame” lasted for over an hour, a testament to the remarkable defensive and strategic play of both competitors. Each shot was met with rapturous applause and anxious anticipation from the audience. As the minutes ticked away, it became clear that this frame was destined to be etched in snooker history.

Then, in a moment of unparalleled tension, Dennis Taylor potted the black ball. The Crucible erupted into wild celebrations as Taylor secured his victory with a score of 18-17. His famous finger-wagging celebration has become an enduring image in the world of snooker.

Take it away Taylor

The 1985 Snooker World Championship Final wasn’t just a sporting event; it was a spectacle that transcended the boundaries of the game. It showcased the mental fortitude, skill, and unwavering determination of these two remarkable players. Dennis Taylor’s victory over Steve Davis in the “Black Ball Final” remains one of the most memorable moments in the history of snooker, so much so it broke many records for its historic television viewership in the UK, with millions of people tuning in to witness the thrilling conclusion.

TL;DR

The 1985 Snooker World Championship Final stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of snooker as a sport and the capacity of sporting events to captivate and inspire audiences worldwide. It’s a reminder that, in the world of sports, true greatness often emerges in the crucible of intense competition, and the “Black Ball Final” of 1985 will forever hold a special place in the hearts of snooker fans everywhere.

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