In the world of billiards, where age is often a factor that causes athletes to decline in performance, there is one person who has broken all stereotypes and all limits of time. At the age of 68, while many of his peers have long since retired, Efren “Bata” Reyes – known as the “Wizard of Billiards” – still stands tall as a monument, surprising the world with his strong, powerful and magical comeback. Fans around the world have dubbed his comeback “The Rise of the King”. An indisputable affirmation that he is still the greatest player of all time.
At a recent major tournament, where young, energetic and hungry for victory gathered, no one thought that a man nearly 70 years old would be able to create miracles. But Efren Reyes did it – and not only did he “play well”, he dominated every game with his intelligent, calm and magical style of play, leaving his young opponents unable to react. The whole room held its breath every time Reyes stepped onto the table. The cheers, the long applause, and the utter amazement after each incredible shot created an unprecedented atmosphere.
It can be said that Efren Reyes is not simply a good player. He is an icon, a living legend, a testament to the saying: “Class is forever.” Even after decades of fighting, he still maintains his passion, sharpness and relentless fighting spirit. His shots are not muscular or powerful like many other young players, but are meticulous calculations, superb ball feel, and tactical imagination that almost no one can copy.
In the most memorable match of the tournament, Reyes faced the world’s top player – a man who once told the press: “I would beat him in just a few games.” But that statement was quickly extinguished by a cruel reality. Reyes not only played well, he performed art on the billiard table. His three-cushioned shots, his skillful “kick shots”, or his extremely dangerous safe placements left his opponents frozen. The whole audience chanted his name. When Reyes finally won, his opponent could only shake his head and smile wryly, then come up to shake his hand in utmost respect.
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It is not by chance that the world calls him “The Magician”. He does not play billiards like ordinary people. Reyes sees the cues in a way that no one else can. He knows how to turn seemingly impossible situations into scoring opportunities. The amazing thing is that despite his advanced age, his eyes are no longer as sharp, his hands are not as fast as when he was at his peak, but his tactical brain and passionate heart are still burning like when he was in his twenties.
What makes people admire Reyes is not only his billiards skills, but also his sportsmanship and humble lifestyle. He always smiles, is willing to chat with fans, always respects his opponents and never shows off. In an era where social media and communication can easily make young athletes "inflate" themselves, Reyes is an example of calmness, simplicity but extremely scary on the table.
Reyes' strong rise at the age of 68 is also a slap in the face to those who thought he was past his prime. Many people used to say that he should rest, should give the playing field to the younger generation. But he didn't need to say anything, he let the ball do the talking. And that voice is loud, sharp, and authoritative – making the billiards world bow in admiration.
Watching him play, one feels like reliving the golden age of billiards, where art and strategy blend together. Not the tense, breathless matches, but the breathtaking performances. Reyes makes the audience not only excited but also inspired. Young people can be agile, can be strong, but only people like Reyes can make billiards a true art.
“The Rise of the King!” – is not only the story of a legend’s return, but also a strong message to the world: Passion has no age. True talent is not limited by years. Efren Reyes – at 68 years old – was, is, and will always be the greatest player of all time. No one can replace his legacy. And with every stroke, every smile, he continued to write his own legendary chapter – a chapter that no time could erase.
