The World Nineball Tour introduces the Efren Reyes Cup, an invitational tournament where Asia’s top players will challenge Team Europe. Set for October 17th-20th in Manila, it honors legendary player Efren Reyes. The format is inspired by the Mosconi Cup, engaging the global pool community in a competitive showcase.
The World Nineball Tour has officially introduced the Efren Reyes Cup, a new invitational tournament set for October 17th-20th. Inspired by the format of the renowned Mosconi Cup, this event will feature a team competition where top players from Asia will face off against Team Europe. The inaugural event will take place in Manila, honoring the legendary Efren ‘Bata’ Reyes, who is celebrated as one of the greatest pool players in history.
Efren Reyes, known for his significant contributions to the sport, including winning world championships, will have the tournament named after him. Reyes inspired millions of pool enthusiasts and contributed to the Philippines’ reputation in the sport. Alongside Francisco Bustamante, Reyes showcased an exceptional partnership, winning multiple prestigious titles, including the World Cup of Pool in 2009.
The tournament structure mirrors the Mosconi Cup’s established four-day team format. Team Asia will be composed of the top three players from the World Nineball Rankings and two other wildcards chosen by the team captain. Aloysius Yapp currently leads the Race to the Reyes Cup for Team Asia after his victory at the International Open last October, while David Alcaide represents Team Europe.
Qualification for the Reyes Cup will occur in three phases, with players finalized after critical events: the World Pool Championship in Jeddah, the European Open in Fulda, and the US Open in Atlantic City. Rankings will be drawn from the 2024 one-year list, ensuring a competitive selection process for both teams.
Efren “Bata” Reyes expressed his gratitude concerning the event’s naming, stating, “I am truly humbled and honored that Matchroom has chosen to name this prestigious event after me. The Efren Reyes Cup is not just a tournament; it’s a celebration of the sport we love.” This quote underscores the significance of the event in the pool community.
Emily Frazer, CEO of Matchroom Multi Sport, remarked on the realization of a dream with the Reyes Cup’s formation, affirming the contributions of Sky Sports and the enduring legacy of the Mosconi Cup. She emphasized the importance of honoring Reyes in his homeland, acknowledging his unwavering passion for pool over the past 50 years. “I couldn’t be more delighted than to be working alongside such a legend and organization in Puyat Sports,” she stated.
The Efren Reyes Cup marks a significant addition to the world of professional pool, celebrating the sport and its legends. With a competitive format and esteemed players from Asia and Europe, this inaugural event promises to enhance the global acknowledgment of pool. The tribute to Efren Reyes further cements his legacy while inspiring current and future generations of players.
Original Source: www.planetsport.com
