MANILA – Filipino billiards star Johann Chua cemented his reputation as one of the sport’s most formidable players after defeating former world champion Fedor Gorst, 13–6, to claim the 2025 Knight Shot Open title in Dubai.
What started as a tight contest quickly turned into a showcase of Chua’s precision and composure. Holding a slim 7–6 lead, the Filipino cue artist unleashed a flawless run, sweeping the next six racks to seal the emphatic victory.
The win not only earned the Bacolod City-native Chua the championship trophy but also the $15,000 top prize.
“Raising this trophy to the one up there, for my country, my family, friends, sponsors, supporters,” Chua wrote in a social media post.
“Buhay na buhay ang bilyar! Nakaka-proud at nakakataba ng puso. Pinapangarap ko lang ito dati na marami sanang sumali na Pinoy sa mga tournaments dahil naniniwala ako sa galing na meron tayo sa bilyar. Ngayon, eto na kaliwa’t kanan ang mga panalo at naniniwala ako na marami pang susunod,” he added.
Chua’s dominant run included an 11–7 semifinal victory over Spain’s David “El Matador” Alcaide, underscoring his sharp form throughout the tournament.
Gorst, who had no answer to Chua’s late surge, settled for the runner-up finish and a $7,000 prize. Fellow Filipino Jeffrey Prieto also had a strong showing, reaching the quarterfinals and pocketing $2,600.
With this latest triumph, Chua further cements his place among the world’s elite cue artists while gaining momentum for the upcoming World Pool Championship at the Green Halls in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia./PN
