1920 World Straight Pool Championship

Results

Place	Player	Prize
1	Ralph Greenleaf
2	Arthur Woods

Recap

Published April 13, 2026

The 1920 World Straight Pool Championship saw Ralph Greenleaf win his second consecutive world title, defeating Arthur Woods. At 21 years old, Greenleaf was establishing himself as the top player in straight pool, a game invented by Jerome Keough in 1910.

Greenleaf's victory over Woods continued his championship run that began in 1919. The championship format of this era differed from modern tournaments. These were extended challenge matches between two players, contested over several days to high point totals that sometimes reached 1,500 points. This marathon format required exceptional mental endurance and consistency.

The significance of this championship extends beyond a single tournament victory. Greenleaf won 19 world championship titles between 1919 and 1938, establishing himself as one of the most dominant players in cue sports history. He was eventually recognized as one of the first three inductees into the Billiard Congress of America's Hall of Fame in 1966.

Arthur Woods, as runner-up, faced a player performing at his peak. The straight pool format required shot-making ability, strategic thinking, and break-building skills that separated top players from others. Greenleaf's consistent performance over multiple marathon contests demonstrated the mental toughness that would characterize his career.

The 1920 championship took place during straight pool's golden era, when it was the most prestigious format in professional pool. This status continued until nine-ball's rise in the late 20th century. Greenleaf's dominance during these formative years helped establish straight pool as a comprehensive test of a player's skill. He died in 1950 at age 50.

Sources: Ralph Greenleaf – 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.