Willie Mosconi has been called one of the best pocket pool players. He has set world records in his field and is remembered for the many trick shots that he created. His talent and his great looks made him an iconic figure in the sport.
Willie Mosconi is a Philadelphia native who was born on June 27, 1913. Joseph, his father was a boxer while Helen O'Reilly was a homemaker. Willie was introduced early to pool. He began playing in tournaments at the age of six. He became a professional player of billiards thanks to this experience.
In the 1930s, Willie started playing for cash. He earned between $10,000 and $15,000 a year. His earnings rose significantly after the Great Depression. Because of his success, he was capable of helping his family through difficult times. Gloria, his child, was born to him in 1953. She went on to become an accounting professional. Paul, her son, was also an accountant.
Mosconi traveled across the country on an exhibition tour during the mid-1950s. His friend Ralph Greenleaf was with him on the tour. Greenleaf declined to play against Mosconi. However, he accepted. Mosconi had a great time on the tour. During the tour, he sunk 526 consecutive balls. Later, the record was certified.
Willie Mosconi wrote instructional books on the game eventually. These books included Willie Mosconi’s Pocket Billiards (Ziff-Davis Publishing Company; 1948) as well as Winning Pocket Billiards(Crown Publishers: 1959).
He wrote numerous articles about the game of billiards. He was appointed as a consultant by the Brunswick Corporation. He also appeared in a variety of television games.
Before his death from a heart attack in 1984, Mosconi was still active in promoting the sport. In addition to his work with Brunswick Corporation, he was also a stakes holder for "The Hustler", starring Minnesota Fats. He also served as technical advisor to the 1961 movie.
Willie Mosconi played a major part in bringing billiards to new generations. He won thirteen World Championships by his final day. He was inducted into the Straight Pool Hall of Fame.
Despite his fame Willie Mosconi didn't like the life of a poolhall. He traveled across the country to participate in tournaments. He was also a rival to Fast Eddie Felson of Minnesota Fats.
He was a true fan. He wrote articles about pool. He attempted to separate it from the image of drunks it is associated with. He was also a member of Billiard Congress of America. He played a major role in the expansion of the game throughout the world.
Willie Mosconi was a mentor to Paul Newman as an adult in the art and technique of billiards. He was an instantly recognizable figure both on TV, and in the movies. His memorable performance in the George Thorogood video to the song "Bad to the Bone" was one of his best.
Mosconi, 64, died of a heart attack. Ann, his wife was remarried.