Paul Hunter (born October 14, 1978) is an English professional snooker player.
Hunter turned professional in 1995. His first ranking tournament victory was the Regal Welsh Open in 1998, but he had to wait until 2002 for his next ranking victories: the British Open and the Regal Welsh for a second time. He continues to rise through the rankings, reaching the top eight for the first time in 2003.
In the 2001 Benson & Hedges Masters, Hunter recovered from a 7-3 deficit to win 10-9. In similar fashion, he also won the same tournament in 2002, having trailed 5-0 at one stage. Known as the 'Beckham of the baize' for his likeness to the England footballer, Hunter admitted resorting to his famous 'Plan B' – cavorting with fiancé Lyndsey Fell in their hotel room before the final sessions.
On April 6, 2005, Hunter announced that he is suffering from Colon cancer. A spokesman for the World Snooker Association, said about that: "Paul will undergo treatment to cure himself of this illness. He would like to reassure his fans and supporters that, as with his snooker career, he is tenacious and positive in his fight against the disease." Three years ago Hunter underwent surgery to remove a cyst on a testicle.
Fellow snooker player Stephen Hendry wished Hunter: "This is terrible news and it puts things in perspective," said seven-times world champion Hendry. "It's the kind of thing that happens to other people, not one of your own. I'd just like to say on behalf of myself and all the other players and staff within my management company that we wish Paul a speedy and full recovery."
Last updated: 05-13-2005 07:56:04
