The 2024 final in Hanoi was more than just a showdown — it was a defining moment in the rise of Johann Chua, a night when persistence, passion, and belief finally delivered the glory he had long pursued.
“The energy in Hanoi was unlike anything I’ve ever felt. Every shot, every cheer from the crowd gave me strength. To lift the trophy here, in such a special atmosphere, is something I will never forget.”
Inside the packed Hanoi Indoor Games Gymnasium, Chua faced Ko Pin Yi, a proven champion nicknamed the ‘Filipino Slayer’ for his many victories over Chua’s countrymen. The stakes were immense: for Ko, another major title to his storied career; for Chua, a chance to capture his first Matchroom Major after years of chasing on the sport’s grandest stages.
What followed was a battle of nerves and willpower. Ko edged the opening rack, but Chua quickly found his rhythm, stringing together racks with fearless jump shots and ironclad safety play. At 7–2 ahead, he looked to be in full command. Yet finals rarely follow a straight line. Ko rallied, cutting the deficit to just one rack and threatening a dramatic comeback. The crowd sensed the tension, every shot heavy with consequence.
But Chua refused to yield. Where in the past the moment may have slipped away, this time he rose to meet it. A costly foul from Ko gave him breathing room, and when Ko missed a decisive 9-ball late in the contest, Chua pounced without hesitation. With the finish line in sight, he produced a flawless closing runout.
“Atin na to!”
As the cue ball drifted perfectly into position on the 9-ball, Chua let out the cry — “It’s ours!” in his native tongue. In that instant, he knew the victory was no longer just his first Major, but a triumph he would share with his country.
Johann Chua 13–7 Ko Pin Yi. A first Matchroom Major. A coronation in Hanoi.
“When that ball went in, I felt years of hard work and sacrifice finally pay off. Winning a Matchroom Major has always been my dream. To do it here, in front of such an incredible crowd, means everything — not just for me, but for the Philippines. This title is for every Filipino who loves this game.”
With the victory, Chua not only etched his name into the history of the Hanoi Open, but also secured his place at the inaugural Reyes Cup and confirmed his status as one of the sport’s elite.
A new champion. A proud nation. And a night that reminded the pool world why moments like these make history.
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