Luther Lassiter 2025: Net Worth, Salary, and Earnings

Luther Lassiter was one of the greatest pool players of all time. He won seven world pocket billiard championships and numerous other titles, earning him the nickname “Wimpy” after his favorite comic strip character. This article will look at Luther Lassiter’s Net worth, Salary, and Earnings.

About Luther Lassiter

Luther Lassiter was born on November 5, 1918, in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. He started playing pool at seven, using a broomstick as a cue. He soon developed a passion and talent for the game and dropped out of school to pursue it full-time.

He became a master of nine-ball, a game that requires speed, accuracy, and strategy. He also excelled at other games, such as straight pool and one-pocket. He was widely respected and feared by his peers and opponents, who regarded him as one of the best players ever.

Early Life

Luther Lassiter grew up in a poor family in rural North Carolina. His father was a farmer and his mother was a housewife. He became fascinated by the game and spent hours practising and playing against local players.

He played sports like baseball and football, but pool was his true passion. He dropped out of school in the eighth grade and moved to Norfolk, Virginia.

Professional Career

Luther Lassiter turned professional in 1937 and won his first major title at the World Straight Pool Championship. He repeated this feat in 1942 and 1949. He also won the World Nine-Ball Championship six times between 1953 and 1967.

He also set several records in pool history, such as being the first player to run 150 balls in the straight pool on live television (in 1961), being the first player to win $1000 in a single game of nine-ball (in 1963), being the oldest player to win a world title (at age 49 in 1967), and being ranked number one in the world for 15 consecutive years (from 1952 to 1966).

Luther Lassiter’s Net Worth Details

Luther Lassiter’s net worth is estimated to be $4 million as of 2025. His main source of income was from his tournament winnings and gambling earnings.

He also made some money from endorsements and exhibitions. He was one of the highest-paid pool players in history.

Quick Facts

Wife

Luther Lassiter married Mary Lou Lassiter in 1940.

Career Stats

FAQs

Who was Luther Lassiter?

Luther Lassiter, also known as “Wimpy,” was an American professional pool player born on November 5, 1918, in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. He is considered one of the greatest nine-ball players ever and has won numerous championships.

Why was Luther Lassiter nicknamed “Wimpy”?

Luther Lassiter earned the nickname “Wimpy” due to his love for hot dogs and soda, similar to the character J. Wellington Wimpy from the Popeye cartoons, known for his love of hamburgers.

What are some of Luther Lassiter’s major accomplishments in a pool?

Luther Lassiter won seven world-pocket billiard championships and over 20 major titles. He was particularly renowned for his skill in nine-ball and straight pool, making him a legend in the sport.

When was Luther Lassiter inducted into the Hall of Fame?

Luther Lassiter was inducted into the Billiard Congress of America Hall of Fame in 1983. That same year, he was also inducted into the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame, becoming the first and only billiards player to receive this honor.

What was Luther Lassiter’s early life like?

Luther Lassiter grew up in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. He developed an interest in pool at a young age and practiced at a local pool hall in exchange for cleaning the place after closing. He dropped out of school at 16 to pursue a career in billiards.

What made Luther Lassiter a legendary “money” player?

Luther Lassiter was considered one of the best “money” players ever, known for his ability to perform under pressure in high-stakes matches. His strategic play and calm demeanor made him a formidable opponent in gambling games and tournaments.

Did Luther Lassiter write any books?

Luther Lassiter authored two books on the pool: The Modern Guide to Pocket Billiards (1964) and Billiards for Everyone (1965). These books share his insights and techniques on playing pool.

How did Luther Lassiter’s career impact his personal life?

Luther Lassiter dedicated his life to pool, which he described as a lonely profession. Despite his success, he never married, stating that Pool was his true love. His commitment to the game often kept him from other aspects of a typical social life.

What was Luther Lassiter’s playing style and reputation?

Luther Lassiter was known for his precision, strategic play, and ability to make difficult shots. His reputation as a top player was built on his consistent performance and ability to return from seemingly impossible situations in matches.

How did Luther Lassiter spend his final years?

In his later years, Luther Lassiter faced financial difficulties and lived alone in his childhood home in Elizabeth City. He continued to play pool until his death on October 25, 1988, when he was found next to his pool table, having passed away from natural causes.