Brendan Moore: The Remarkable Journey of a Snooker Legend and His Final World Championship Triumph
In the world of professional snooker, players often steal the spotlight, yet behind every flawless match is an expert referee ensuring fairness and precision. Among the most respected figures in snooker refereeing is Brendan Moore. Over a 19-year career, Moore has become synonymous with professionalism, calm authority, and a deep love for the sport. This article explores the life of Brendan Moore — his personal background, illustrious career, and the emotional climax at his final World Championship.
Early Life and Personal Background
Brendan Moore’s Beginnings
Born on February 17, 1972, in Sheffield, England, Brendan Moore’s life story is one of dedication, humility, and passion. Now 53 years old, Moore’s early years were far from the glamorous world of professional sports. Before entering snooker refereeing, he worked as a bus driver in Sheffield for nearly a decade. This grounded experience gave him a profound connection to everyday life and an appreciation for hard work and discipline.
Family Life: Wife and Children
Family is central to Brendan Moore’s life. He is married to his wife, Sharon, with whom he shares three daughters: Lorna, Sophie, and Caitlin. Beyond being a loving husband and father, Moore is a doting grandfather to his granddaughter, Evie. Known for his warmth and humility, Moore balances a demanding professional life with close family ties, often highlighting the support of his loved ones as a source of strength.
Career Beginnings and Rise in Snooker Refereeing
Transition from Bus Driver to Referee
Brendan Moore’s journey into snooker refereeing began in the early 2000s. While assisting in his family’s child-minding business, his passion for snooker grew. He took up refereeing as a side interest and soon realised his aptitude for it. Beginning his professional refereeing career in 2004, Moore quickly rose through the ranks with a keen eye for detail and unwavering impartiality.
Establishing a Reputation
By 2005, Brendan Moore was a regular presence on the World Snooker Tour. His professionalism and composed demeanour made him a preferred choice for officiating high-pressure matches. Over the years, Moore built a reputation for fairness and precision, qualities that players, officials, and fans deeply respected.
Career Highlights: World Championship Finals and More
A Career Marked by Prestigious Appointments
Brendan Moore’s refereeing career is distinguished by his presence at the sport’s most prestigious events. He officiated three World Snooker Championship finals — in 2014, 2018, and notably in 2025, marking the end of his refereeing career. The World Championship final is the pinnacle of snooker, and Moore’s role in these matches underscores the trust and respect he earned in the sport.
Additionally, Moore took charge of several Masters and UK Championship finals, further cementing his status among the elite in snooker officiating.
The Historic 2023 World Championship Final
One of the most memorable moments in Moore’s career came during the 2023 World Championship final. He was the referee when Mark Selby made the first-ever maximum 147 break in a World Championship final — a historic moment in snooker. Moore’s calm presence during this extraordinary achievement highlighted his role in preserving the integrity and excitement of the game.
Brendan Moore’s Emotional Farewell: The 2025 World Championship Final
The Final Curtain Call
In 2025, Brendan Moore officiated his third World Snooker Championship final at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield — his hometown — before retiring. This final was particularly poignant, as it was the first since the passing of his father, Derek. Moore described the occasion as “bittersweet” and “surreal,” reflecting both pride in his achievements and the emotional weight of the moment.
Walking out for the final time at the Crucible was a significant milestone. Moore expressed that there could be no better way to conclude a refereeing career than by overseeing the sport’s biggest match. His professionalism remained unwavering despite the personal emotions he carried.
Transition to a New Chapter
Following this final match, Moore announced his move to become a tournament director for Matchroom Pool. This transition from snooker refereeing to pool tournament management marks a new chapter in his lifelong dedication to cue sports. The shift reflects his desire to embrace fresh challenges while continuing to contribute to the sporting world.
Brendan Moore’s Legacy in Snooker
An Icon of Fairness and Professionalism
Brendan Moore’s legacy is defined by his integrity, calm under pressure, and dedication to the sport. For nearly two decades, he ensured that snooker matches were conducted with the utmost fairness and respect for the rules. His steady presence in critical moments helped build trust among players and fans alike.
Inspiring Future Generations
Moore’s journey from a Sheffield bus driver to one of the most respected referees in snooker serves as an inspiration. His career shows that passion and perseverance can lead to success, even in the most demanding environments. Aspiring referees and sports officials look up to Moore as a role model who exemplifies professionalism and dedication.
Brendan Moore: Life Beyond the Table
Personal Interests and Passions
Outside the snooker arena, Brendan Moore is known for his diverse interests. A passionate supporter of Sheffield Wednesday Football Club, he maintains strong ties to his local community. He is also an avid follower of American football, particularly the Miami Dolphins, showcasing a broad sporting enthusiasm.
Moore enjoys spending time with his family, especially his granddaughter, and appreciates simple pleasures like cinema and music. These interests provide balance and enrichment beyond his intense professional commitments.
Conclusion
Brendan Moore’s story is one of dedication, passion, and grace. From humble beginnings in Sheffield to the bright lights of the Crucible Theatre, he has left a lasting impact on snooker as one of its finest referees. His career highlights, including three World Championship finals and historic moments, speak volumes about his skill and respect within the sport.
His emotional farewell in 2025, followed by a seamless transition into pool tournament management, illustrates a man who embraces change while honouring his legacy. Brendan Moore remains a symbol of professionalism and integrity in cue sports, inspiring countless others through his remarkable journey.
As snooker evolves and grows, the contributions of referees like Brendan Moore remind us that behind every great match lies the dedication of individuals committed to the spirit and fairness of the game.
