Willie Mosconi was a great pocket pool player. He is known for his many trick shots and has set numerous world records in his field. His skills, along with his good looks, combined to make him an icon for the sport.
Willie Mosconi is a Philadelphia native who was born on June 27, 1913. Joseph Mosconi, his father, was a boxer, and Helen O'Reilly was his mother. 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.
Willie started gambling for cash in 1930s. He earned between $10,000-$15,000 per year. His earnings increased significantly after the Great Depression. As a result of his success, he was able to help out his family during tough times. Gloria, his only child, was conceived in 1953. Later, she became an accountant. Paul, Paul's son, also became an accounting professional.
Mosconi made a cross-country exhibit tour in the mid-1950s. During this tour, he met Ralph Greenleaf. Although Greenleaf was not keen to play against Mosconi he agreed. Mosconi enjoyed a tremendous run on the tour. Mosconi sank 526 consecutive shots during the tour. The record was later certified.
Willie Mosconi eventually began writing instructional books about the game. These books include Willie Mosconi, Pocket Billiards (Ziff-Davis Publishing Company), 1948, and Winning Pocket Billiards [Crown Publishers], 1959].
He wrote many articles about billiards. He was also a consultant for Brunswick Corporation. He also appeared on a number of television games shows.
Mosconi, who died in 1984 of a heart attack, was still actively involved in the promotion and support of the sport. Aside from his work with the Brunswick Corporation, he also acted as a stakes holder in the 1961 film "The Hustler," playing Minnesota Fats. He was also the technical advisor for the 1961 movie.
Willie Mosconi is credited with bringing billiards alive for new generations. He won thirteen World Championships before he died. He was inducted into The Straight Pool Hall of Fame.
Despite his celebrity, Willie Mosconi resentfully lived in a pool room. He would travel all over the country to compete at tournaments. He was also a rival to Fast Eddie Felson of Minnesota Fats.
He was a true fan. He also wrote articles regarding pool. He attempted to separate it from the image of drunks it is associated with. He was a founding member of the Billiard Congress of America. Ultimately, he contributed to the growth of the sport worldwide.
Willie Mosconi trained Paul Newman in the art billiards. He was a well-known actor on TV and the screen. One of his most memorable performances was in the George Thorogood video for the song "Bad to the Bone."
Mosconi was 64 when he died of a heartattack. Ann, his wife of 64 years, remarried.