1918 World Straight Pool Championship

Results

Place	Player	Prize
1	Frank Taberski
2	Ralph Greenleaf

Recap

Published April 13, 2026

The 1918 World Straight Pool Championship saw Frank "The Gray Fox" Taberski win his 10th consecutive challenge match, earning permanent possession of the ruby and diamond-studded gold medal. In an era when 450-point challenge matches determined supremacy, Taberski's record surpassed that of legendary competitor Alfredo DeOro, who had achieved five straight defenses of the prize.

Taberski defeated Ralph Greenleaf in the championship final, continuing a rivalry that had begun when Taberski won against Greenleaf in 1916 to retain his world title. The Schenectady native turned professional in 1915 at age 26 after witnessing the New York City pocket billiards championship and deciding he could compete with top players.

The championship format of the era differed significantly from modern tournaments. Players competed in challenge matches lasting days, with 450 points as the target score. This format tested skill, mental strength, and physical endurance. Taberski earned the nickname The Gray Fox for his methodical approach and composure, and by 1918, these qualities had produced 10 consecutive victories.

The 1918 triumph marked the end of Taberski's first competitive period. After winning the championship and the permanent medal, he retired from professional pool. He returned in 1925 to reclaim the world title from Ralph Greenleaf, who had held it through more than 10 consecutive challenge matches during Taberski's absence.

The 1918 championship represented straight pool's golden age, when the World Straight Pool Championship was the most prestigious title in pocket billiards. Taberski's achievement—winning 10 consecutive challenge matches and earning permanent possession of the championship medal—remains one of the most notable accomplishments in billiards history.

Sources: Frank Taberski – Wikipedia World Straight Pool Championship – Wikipedia

This recap was compiled from public tournament records and tournament organizer communications. ForceFollow is not affiliated with the tournament organizer.