Efren "Bata" Reyes, widely regarded as the greatest pool player of all time, recently shared some insights into his legendary career in an exclusive interview.
With a career spanning decades, Efren has left an indelible mark on the world of billiards, captivating fans and fellow players with his unparalleled skill and mastery of the game.
Born in Santa Cruz, Manila, Efren began playing billiards at the tender age of eight.
His passion for the game led him to Lucky 13, a pool hall where he honed his skills and embarked on a journey that would ultimately cement his status as a living legend in the world of pool.
When asked about his advice for aspiring pool players, Efren emphasized the importance of relentless practice and learning from both seasoned and amateur players.
He stressed the value of self-improvement and urged players to observe and emulate the techniques of skilled practitioners to enhance their own game.
Known for his mesmerizing shots, Efren revealed that his favorite shot on the pool table involves applying spin to follow the cue ball.
This signature move has become synonymous with his playing style, showcasing his exceptional control and finesse on the green baize.
Despite his unparalleled prowess, Efren humbly admitted that there is one shot he finds particularly challenging – the draw shot.
Drawing the cue ball with English presents a formidable obstacle even for a player of Efren's caliber, highlighting the nuances and complexities inherent in the game of pool.
Throughout his illustrious career, Efren has excelled in various forms of billiards, but he holds a special affinity for 15 Ball Rotation.
He explained that the game demands intense concentration and strategic thinking, making it an ideal platform for honing one's skills and mastering the intricacies of the sport.
His love for Carom Billiards further underscores his versatility and expertise across different disciplines within the realm of cue sports.
In a rare display of his exceptional talent, Efren treated spectators to a captivating warm-up session ahead of his exhibition at the Matchroom Pool Hanoi Open in Vietnam.
His precision and finesse were on full display as he effortlessly executed a series of highlight shots, leaving onlookers in awe of his virtuosity on the table.
The highlight of the event was a friendly exhibition game between Efren and local celebrity pool player Do Khai.
The match provided an opportunity for fans to witness Efren's mastery firsthand as he showcased his extraordinary skill and sportsmanship, captivating the audience with his trademark flair and finesse.
Reflecting on his illustrious career, Efren recalled some of his most significant achievements, citing "The Color of Money" in 1996 as one of his proudest moments.
Additionally, he fondly reminisced about clinching the World Pool Championship in 1999, underscoring the global recognition and acclaim he has garnered throughout his career.
When asked about the best player he has ever seen, Efren paid homage to Mike Sigel, acknowledging his exceptional talent and formidable skill on the table.
He recounted memorable encounters with Sigel, highlighting his unparalleled prowess and influence on the world of billiards.
Turning his attention to the Filipino billiards scene, Efren singled out Dennis Orcullo as one of the standout players in recent years.
He praised Orcullo's exceptional shooting prowess while acknowledging the emergence of a new generation of talented players who are making their mark on the sport.
In a captivating moment during the interview, Efren graciously demonstrated a mesmerizing shot on the pool table, showcasing his extraordinary talent and precision.
His effortless execution left an indelible impression, serving as a testament to his enduring legacy as one of the greatest players to have ever graced the game of billiards.
As the interview concluded, Efren expressed his enduring passion for the game, emphasizing that while he no longer competes in pool, he continues to indulge in Carom Billiards for leisure and enjoyment.
His unwavering dedication to the sport serves as an inspiration to aspiring players and a testament to his enduring love for the game that has defined his remarkable career.
In closing, Efren "Bata" Reyes stands as a paragon of excellence in the world of billiards, revered for his extraordinary talent, sportsmanship, and enduring legacy.
His indelible impact on the sport continues to resonate with fans and players alike, solidifying his status as a true icon and an eternal source of inspiration for generations to come.
