1956 World Straight Pool Championship

Results

Place	Player	Prize
1	Willie Mosconi
2	Jimmy Caras

Recap

Published April 13, 2026

Willie Mosconi entered the 1956 World Straight Pool Championship as the top player in pocket billiards and won his 16th world title. Between 1941 and 1957, Mosconi claimed 19 World Straight Pool Championships total.

Jimmy Caras was Mosconi's opponent in the final. The straight pool format—14.1 continuous—was the premier competitive game of the 1950s. It required precision, mental stamina, and strategic thinking, with matches often lasting many hours.

Mosconi dominated during this period. His mastery of the game extended beyond shot-making; he pioneered trick shots, set numerous records, and helped transform pool from a backroom pastime into a nationally recognized sport. His competitive excellence made him one of the first inductees into the Billiard Congress of America Hall of Fame.

The 1956 championship represented another significant title for Mosconi during an era when straight pool was considered the ultimate test of a player's skill. His victory over Caras came during the golden age of straight pool competition, when the sport enjoyed widespread popularity and television coverage was beginning to bring these matches into American living rooms.

By defeating Caras and claiming the 1956 title, Mosconi continued to establish his legacy as one of the greatest pool players of all time. His nickname Mr. Pocket Billiards reflected his status in the sport—for most of the 20th century, Willie Mosconi was synonymous with pool excellence. The 1956 championship stands as another testament to his skill and competitive drive that would define professional pool for generations.

Sources: Willie Mosconi – 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.