Snooker legend Jimmy White made headlines when he legally changed his name as part of a sponsorship deal during the 2005 Masters tournament. Known as ‘The Whirlwind’ and a six-time World Championship finalist, White aimed to inject some excitement into the event by partnering with HP Sauce. The popular food company, which had already agreed to sponsor the brown ball at the Masters, went a step further by having White change his surname to Brown through deed poll. This move, however, met with resistance from the BBC and World Snooker, who refused to acknowledge the new moniker, insisting he had entered the tournament under his original name.
Despite the controversy surrounding the name change, White remained committed to promoting the tournament in a fun and engaging manner. In a statement at the time, he expressed hopes of seeing the name ‘James Brown’ engraved on the Masters trophy by the end of the event. Wearing brown attire instead of his usual black tuxedo, White’s fortunes seemed to take a turn for the better during the tournament. In his matches, he displayed resilience and skill, earning dramatic victories against formidable opponents like Matt Stevens and Mark Williams. However, his journey was halted in the semi-final by Ronnie O’Sullivan, who eventually emerged as the champion by defeating John Higgins.
While White is best known for his World Championship final losses in the 1980s and 1990s, he did secure his first of four world titles at the World Seniors Championship in 2010, defeating his long-time rival Steve Davis in the final. Despite the setbacks he faced during his career, White’s legacy in snooker remains illustrious, with ten ranking titles to his name. His brief stint as ‘James Brown’ at the 2005 Masters added an intriguing chapter to his colourful career, showcasing his willingness to push boundaries and captivate audiences both on and off the snooker table.
White’s decision to embrace the name change for sponsorship purposes not only sparked debates within the snooker community but also underscored his dedication to elevating the profile of the sport. By collaborating with HP Sauce and adopting the persona of ‘James Brown’, White demonstrated his creativity and showmanship, adding a new dimension to the traditional world of snooker. Though the name change may have been short-lived, it left a lasting impression on fans and players alike, showcasing White’s indomitable spirit and his enduring passion for the game.
As White continues to leave his mark on the snooker world through his performances and contributions, his brief foray into the persona of ‘James Brown’ serves as a memorable footnote in his storied career. With his distinctive playing style and charismatic presence, White remains a beloved figure in the sport, embodying the essence of resilience, determination, and sportsmanship. Whether as Jimmy White or James Brown, his impact on snooker and its community remains undeniable, highlighting his enduring legacy as a true icon of the game.