Biado US Open Pool Champion

Carlo Biado claimed one of world pool’s biggest titles after rallying back to defeat Singapore’s Aloysius Yapp, 13-8, Saturday (Sunday, Sept. 19 Philippine time) and win the US Open Pool Championship at Harrah’s Resort in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

- Jonas Terrado

Staring at an 8-3 deficit in the race-to-13 final, Biado refused to buckle and engineered a stirring comeback by taking the next 10 racks on his way to taking home the Barry Behrman trophy, a green jacket, and the top purse of $50,000 (P2.5 million).

Usually calm and collected, Biado was enthusiastic upon sinking the 9-ball shot to the corner pocket in the clinching 21st rack, even jumping on top of the pool table to the delight of the audience who repeatedly chanted his name.

Biado was visibly emotional as the former golf caddie who later became a world 9-ball champion, a World Games winner, and a multi-time Southeast Asian Games gold medalist celebrated with his wife who was watching from the stands.

“I’m very happy because winning this event is one of my dreams,” Biado said while fighting back tears.

The 37-year-old native of Nueva Ecija who now resides in Muntinlupa City has now added to his collection the US Open, an event considered as one of the most important prizes in pool.