It was said that when Efren "Bata" Reyes stepped onto the table, all limits in billiards were erased. Unbelievable curved shots, saves from deadly situations became "daily" every time he held the cue. That is why fans affectionately called him "The Magician". However, time is an unforgiving opponent to anyone. And recently, at the prestigious European Grand Prix 2025 tournament, the three-time world champion from Germany - Henrik Schäfer - announced in a press conference after an overwhelming victory over a young player: "The magic of Efren Reyes is over. His time is over."
A short sentence, but like an earthquake. It not only shook the world billiards community, but also raised a heartbreaking question: Has Efren Reyes - who once dominated the global pool scene - really retreated into the shadows?
Master or Outdated Legacy?
Thorsten Hohmann, known as the new European billiards icon, is a player with a modern style, combining shot analysis technology and standard tactics. He did not hesitate to declare: “Efren’s feeling-based style is outdated. Billiards today requires absolute precision, there is no room for ‘magic’ anymore.” With three world championships in the past 6 years, Schäfer’s voice carries weight. He has proven his ability through near-perfect breaks, millimeter-precise “safety” shots, and a cold, efficient, machine-like playing style.
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Thorsten Hohmann once publicly challenged Reyes to an exhibition 9-ball match late last year in Manila. Although it was just a friendly match, the audience clearly noticed the slowness in Reyes’ every move. A few weak shots, and even a "miscue" - a rarity for Reyes in his prime. The media began to buzz: "Is this the Reyes we used to know?"
Age and fading glory
Efren Reyes is now in his 70s. His eyes that once saw angles no one else saw, his hands that once controlled the ball like a circus performer, are now a bit shaky. Many people say Reyes should stop, to keep his undefeated image in the minds of his fans. But he - a simple man from Angeles, Philippines - continues to compete, continues to hold the cue with the same determined eyes as before.
However, the numbers don't lie. In his last 10 international matches, Reyes has only won 2 matches - and both were against young players with no reputation. On the contrary, against opponents in the top 10, he is completely outclassed. Fans felt sorry to see him hang his head after missing shots, or when he just sat silently in his chair for long periods of time, because his opponent was "breaking and running" and he had no chance to respond.
However, magic is immeasurable
Despite the cold numbers, there are still people who believe that Reyes' "magic" does not lie in winning. They say that his greatness does not come from the titles, but from the way he plays - the way he inspires. It is the "kick shots" that are impossible, the times when the audience stands up because of a paradoxical handling that still succeeds. That is the real emotion.
Former world champion Earl Strickland once said: "Reyes is the only player I cannot read. When you think he is going to play safe, he goes straight to the ball and... scores." And even Thorsten Hohmann, who recently declared Reyes’s time gone, admitted: “No one can replicate what he did. I can’t deny that.”
Last flame or quiet comeback?
In a recent interview, Reyes smiled when asked about Thorsten Hohmann’s comments. He simply said: “Everyone has the right to think what they want. I just know that I still love billiards, and as long as I can play, I will not stop.”
That is the spirit of a legend. No need to justify, no need to refute. For Reyes, every shot is a part of life. And no matter what people say, he is still an immortal symbol of this sport.
Maybe Reyes is no longer an invincible player. Maybe he will never lift the world championship trophy again. But in the hearts of millions of billiards lovers, Reyes has never "lost his magic". Because he is not just a player - he is an inspiration, a proof that perfection is not needed to create miracles.
And who knows, in an upcoming tournament, among young, agile, modern players - there will be a moment when Reyes makes the whole audience hold their breath with an "impossible" shot, and everyone will exclaim in unison:
"He is still the Wizard."
