In a sport where youth, focus, and precision often dominate, one man continues to defy expectations, gravity, and even time itself. Efren “Bata” Reyes, the Filipino magician of the billiards world, once again proved why he is hailed as the greatest pool player of all time. At the remarkable age of 68, Reyes didn’t just show up at the US Open—he absolutely dismantled his American opponents with a display of brilliant cue ball control, thunderous shots, and sheer creativity that left fans, players, and commentators speechless.
From the moment Reyes entered the arena, the atmosphere shifted. Fans who had grown up watching his mastery, as well as a new generation discovering him through YouTube clips and tournament replays, rose to their feet. It wasn’t just a match—they were about to witness history being written again.
The Silent Storm
Efren Reyes has always been known for his calm demeanor, even under pressure. As the cameras rolled and his American challengers chalked their cues with confidence, Reyes simply smiled and nodded. He wasn't there to prove anything—his name was already etched in every record book. But what he delivered was a masterclass that few could have predicted.
The first few racks set the tone: Reyes’ cue ball glided across the felt like it was guided by invisible strings. Every shot was precise, every positional play surgical. He would sink the 1-ball, send the cue ball perfectly three rails around the table, and land it just inches away from his next target. It wasn't just technique—it was poetry in motion.
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Cue Ball Control: A Weapon, Not Just a Skill
One of the defining features of Reyes’ game has always been his uncanny control of the cue ball. While most players play with speed and calculation, Reyes plays with touch, vision, and instinct. In this US Open run, he showcased the full arsenal.
On multiple occasions, after potting a difficult long shot, Reyes would feather the cue ball into perfect position—not just for the next ball, but for the one after. His opponents found themselves locked out of the table, helplessly watching as Reyes pieced together runs like an artist finishing a masterpiece.
A key moment came during the fourth rack of a match against seasoned American player Johnny Archer. Reyes found himself trapped behind three balls, but instead of going defensive, he pulled off a three-rail kick shot that not only made contact with the object ball but sank it—and left the cue ball perfectly positioned for the next shot. The crowd exploded. Archer simply stared in disbelief.
Creative Brilliance: Seeing What Others Can’t
Efren Reyes doesn’t just play the table—he redefines it. In one unforgettable shot, Reyes faced a near-impossible angle for a side-pocket pot. Rather than force it, he played a deliberate masse shot that curved the cue ball just enough to contact the object ball’s edge and bank it cleanly into the corner. Even professional commentators were left speechless.
“How do you even see that?” one broadcaster gasped.
“You don’t… unless your name is Efren Reyes,” the other replied.
It’s this kind of vision that separates Reyes from everyone else. While other players calculate their way through the table, Reyes feels it. He sees paths where none exist. He bends angles to his will. And he does it all with the elegance of a man who knows exactly who he is.
The Power Still Remains
At 68, many expected Reyes to play with finesse but not force. Yet he reminded the world that he’s still capable of unleashing power when necessary. His break shots were clean and explosive, often spreading the balls wide open and giving him strong starts.
In one rack, he power-drew the cue ball all the way down and back up the table after pocketing the 4-ball, shocking both his opponent and the audience with the sheer force and precision of the shot.
“Is he really 68?” one fan whispered in disbelief.
“No,” another answered, “he’s timeless.”
Dominating the Americans
Reyes didn’t just win his matches—he controlled them. Against a lineup of seasoned American players, including regional champions and former tour regulars, Reyes played with composure, strategy, and imagination that rendered his opponents spectators at their own matches.
Several attempted to disrupt his rhythm with defensive plays, but Reyes would respond with magical safeties, intricate kicks, and high-IQ patterns that turned the tide in his favor again and again. By the end of each match, his opponents could only nod in respect and shake his hand.
And Reyes? He just smiled. Humble as ever. Silent. Letting the shots do the talking.
A Standing Ovation for Greatness
After his final match of the evening, the crowd gave Reyes a full standing ovation—not just for the victory, but for what he represents. He’s not just a player. He’s the bridge between generations. The living memory of the sport. And in that moment, with cue in hand, he reminded everyone that greatness doesn’t fade with age—it deepens.
Young fans watching online called it “a tutorial by the GOAT.” Seasoned veterans watching live said they hadn’t seen anything that smooth in years. For the sport of billiards, it was a gift.
Legacy in Action
Efren Reyes’ performance at the US Open at 68 years old wasn’t just a highlight—it was a statement. A message that true talent, forged through years of dedication and experience, never dies. It evolves. It adapts. And sometimes, it resurfaces with a quiet storm that sweeps everyone off their feet.
As he packed up his cue and left the arena with that familiar, shy smile, one thing was clear:
Efren Reyes isn’t just a legend. He’s a living miracle on felt.
And as long as he continues to play, the world will continue to watch—in awe.
