I know the thread has derailed from the MD but I agree with this statement wholeheartedly. Not only in pool, but other areas as well. But for the sake of the argument I'll stick with pool.
It's comical to dismiss the achievements of the players of the past. In regards to pool, Mosconi's record still stands after 56 years. No small feat on any table. He achieved greatness on the equipment available to him and would arguably do it again on what is the standard equipment today. According to Mosconi himself, his high run on a 9ft table were 608 and 589, respectively.
After a brief search, I found where our own Mark Wilson attested to Dallas West having over 3 runs of 400 on a 5x10 table. That's amazing! I realize this is a game with little present day concentration but it shouldn't diminish the overall achievement.
Talented players are resilient and find a way to rise to the top and win no matter the conditions. Many of the years the USA won the MC, the Euro team roster was stacked with great players as well. Steve Davis, Oliver Ortmann, and Darrel Peach among top names for Euro in 1995. And another great team in 1996 with the USA winning 15-13. USA players found a way to win just like so many of the players of yesteryear.
So, no I don't subscribe to the theory that today's players are superior. Someone stated earlier there are more great players and I will agree with that.