Earl Strickland was crowned WNT Legends Champion after producing a commanding performance to defeat Francisco Bustamante 11–6 in the final, lifting the title in front of a packed and passionate crowd at Gateway Mall, Quezon City.
The American completed a remarkable week in Manila, bouncing back from defeat on the opening day to close out the tournament in style and remind all he is still one of the greats of pool.
Reflecting on his victory, Strickland said: “I’m thrilled to win, especially after falling short on Day One. I proved that you can never count an old dog out. I know my days are numbered, but if I keep shooting like that, who knows? I’m proud of myself.
This week is one I’ll never forget. It was an honour to share the stage with four great players. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – there will never be another Efren Reyes, and this week was a reminder of that. Even though the crowd was rooting for the opposition, their passion added something really special to this event.”
Final
Earl Strickland 11–6 Francisco Bustamante
Strickland took early control of the final, opening up a 3–1 lead before Bustamante responded with trademark resilience to level the match at 6–6. However, the momentum soon swung decisively in Strickland’s favour.
Capitalising on a series of late errors, The Pearl surged clear, stringing together five straight racks to close out the match and secure the WNT Legends crown.
Bustamante said: “I’m disappointed not to get the win. I made too many mistakes and Earl took full advantage of them – well done to him. But despite the result, I enjoyed this week. It was special to play against Ralf and Earl again, and to share the stage with Efren in front of our home crowd. I’ll never forget this experience. Even if we’re not in our primes anymore, this week showed that we’ve still got it.”
Third Place Playoff
Ralf Souquet 11–9 Efren Reyes
Earlier in the day, Ralf Souquet claimed third place with an 11–9 victory over Efren Reyes, gaining redemption after his opening-day defeat in a tense and closely fought contest.
Souquet said: “I was happy to get some revenge after Day One, although it wasn’t my best performance. It’s never easy playing in front of a crowd that’s fully behind your opponent. Of course I’m disappointed not to reach the final, but this week has been truly special. Thank you to all the fans who came out – it’s been a real pleasure to play in front of such a passionate audience.”
Reyes added: “I didn’t make a ball off the break, which ultimately let me down, and the luck wasn’t on my side today. Congratulations to Ralf – he was the better player today. Even without winning, I’m happy. This week has been one I’ll never forget. Whether you were here in person or watching at home, thank you to everyone who supported us.”
Staged in partnership with Puyat Sports at Gateway Mall, Quezon City, WNT Legends marked a historic moment for the sport, as four of the greatest players the game has ever seen returned to the arena together one final time. A celebration of rivalry, respect, and camaraderie — a chapter in pool history that will long be remembered.
NEXT WNT RANKING EVENT
The World Nineball Tour continues with the inaugural Carabao International Open, taking place in Jakarta, Indonesia, from 4–8 February, featuring 128 players competing for a $100,000 prize fund.
NEXT MATCHROOM MAJOR
Following Jakarta, Premier League Pool returns, now heading to Florida, USA, from 18–22 February, where 16 of the world’s elite will battle it out. Player announcements will be revealed in the coming weeks.
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