SCHERMERHORN - The young Dutch billiard player Sam van Etten will play most of the World Cups from 2022 onwards. With the wildcard that the Dutch player received for the World Cup in Veghel, the ambition to play more events has increased. ''I've come to the conclusion that it is better for my development to participate in as many World Cup tournaments as possible.''
The excellent performance in Veghel inspired Van Etten to change his plans. ''So far, I always said that I first wanted to get better before playing more World Cups. I've put that aside. Many people, also experts, said after Veghel: why don't you play more World Cups. You will only get better doing that.''
His personal trainer, Raimond Burgman, has strengthened Sam van Etten in that opinion. ''He agreed it was a good idea and that it was the best for my development.''
''My home situation is still good to take this opportunity'', thinks the Dutchman, who has focused his future on three-cushion. ''I can arrange it with my work, that's a big advantage. Besides, I don't live on my own yet and I don't have a family. That makes it easier to make this decision.''
Sam van Etten (24) then called the federation to talk about the plans. ''They were enthusiastic and want to stimulate it. The World Cup in Sharm El Sheikh, which starts on Sunday, came too early.''
''I will start in Antalya, after that Las Vegas is not certain yet, but Porto and Korea are. It will be as many as possible next year to see how far I can get.''
Sam van Etten became in his young career three times European champion in different disciplines, two times Dutch champion in the juniors, two times in the seniors.