Paul Hunter

Paul Alan Hunter (14 October 1978 – 9 October 2006) was an English professional snooker player. His media profile developed swiftly and he became known as the "Beckham of the Baize" because of his good looks and flamboyant style.

Hunter was a three-time Masters Champion, winning the title on the deciding frame on all three occasions. Hunter compiled 114 competitive century breaks in the course of his professional career, including a personal record break of 146 compiled at the 2004 Premier League. Hunter also won three ranking titles, the European Open and  the Welsh Open (twice).

In March 2005 Hunter was diagnosed with neuroendocrine tumours. He died shortly before his 28th birthday in October 2006. In 2010, the Furth Open was renamed the Paul Hunter Classic in his honour, and for the first time in 2012, the Masters trophy was renamed 'The Paul Hunter Trophy.' In 2013, the Paul Hunter Classic was discontinued, but the Masters was officially renamed The Paul Hunter Masters in memory of the player.