We’ve seen, heard and admired most of the popular pool icons for their skill, affability, and charm. But one famous pool player seems to be misunderstood for his often-outspoken views and occasionally impulsive behaviors at tournaments, particularly his match with snooker star Steve Davis in 2003 World Pool Championships, where he engage in heated verbal arguments with fans and referee Michaela Tabb. Wandering who’s this controversial star pool player? The name is Earl Strickland, one of the best nine ball players of all time because of his numerous championship titles within his 25 years of pool playing career.

This cue artist from North Carolina started playing pool at the age of nine, and after intensive practice he entered his first pro tournament at 15. A winner of the prestigious Player of the Year Award, and his accolades include five wins at the U.S. Open Nine-ball Championships, and the WPA World Nine-ball Championships. Strickland is the only WPA World Nine-ball Champion ever to win the event in successive years.

He was inducted into the Billiard Congress of America’s Hall of Fame in 2006 and in 2007; he was ranked #6 in the Pool & Billiard Magazine’s Top 20 Favorite Players.

(Photo via insidepool.com)