Brashna Kasi
The inaugural Reyes Cup billiards event is set to captivate fans this week, as Team Asia takes on Team Europe in a high-stakes competition. Excitement is in the air, especially with Filipino legend Efren “Bata” Reyes leading the charge for Team Asia, who acknowledges the challenge ahead.
Team Composition and Expectations
As the host nation prepares to showcase its talent, Team Asia is seen as the underdog in this battle of cue sports titans. “These Team Europe players are all champions. The players from Team Asia have also shown their skills in the game, so I think they can win,” Reyes stated during a press conference held at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
Team Asia’s roster boasts some of the best players in the region, including:
- Johann Chua (Philippines)
- Carlo Biado (Philippines)
- Ko Pin Yi (Chinese Taipei)
- Aloysius Yapp (Singapore)
- Duong Quoc Hoang (Vietnam)
Chua, fresh off his victory at the Hanoi Open, is eager to make an impact on home soil. “Playing in events like this is one of my dreams, so I’m really excited and I’m just going to enjoy this,” he shared with enthusiasm.
Europe’s Strong Contenders
Facing off against Team Asia is a formidable Team Europe, featuring several elite players:
- Jayson Shaw (Scotland)
- Eklent Kaci (Albania)
- Mickey Krause (Denmark)
- Francisco Sanchez Ruiz (Spain)
- David Alcaide (Spain)
Leading Team Europe is Karl Boyes, a four-time Mosconi Cup winner, whose experience will be essential in this competitive lineup. Although reigning world champion Joshua Filler has pulled out of the competition, the team remains stacked with talent ready to take the trophy.
Format and Prize Money
The format for the Reyes Cup mirrors that of prestigious tournaments like the Mosconi Cup. A total of five race-to-five 9-ball matches will unfold over four nights. The competition consists of singles, doubles, and team matches, with the first team to score 11 points claiming the Reyes Cup trophy.
While the exact prize money for this inaugural event has yet to be disclosed, it is anticipated to be significant. Players from the winning team could receive $40,000 each, similar to what was awarded at the Mosconi Cup.
What to Expect
With the Reyes Cup being the first of its kind, expectations are high for thrilling displays of skill and sportsmanship. Matchroom CEO Emily Frazer expressed excitement about the event, stating, “It’s the inaugural event and it’s going to be incredible.” The stakes run high as both teams aim not only for the trophy but also for personal pride and the opportunity to establish dominance in the billiards world.
Conclusion
The Reyes Cup promises to be an electrifying showcase of billiards talent, pitting Asia’s best players against Europe’s elite. As Team Asia aims to shine on their home turf, fans can look forward to unforgettable moments and fierce competition. With dynamic players and generous prize money on the line, this event is one that billiards enthusiasts will not want to miss.
