Two of the world’s most elite cue artists, two-time World Pool Champion Carlo Biado and current World No. 1 Fedor Gorst, are set to reignite their rivalry — this time not as opponents on the table, but as captains in the prestigious 2025 Reyes Cup, named in honor of Filipino billiards legend Efren “Bata” Reyes.
Fresh off his historic victory at the World Pool Championship in Jeddah, Biado will lead Team Asia, while Gorst, who finished runner-up in both the World Pool Championship and the US Open, takes the helm of the newly formed Team Rest of the World.
Their last encounter — a thrilling finale that saw Biado capture his second world title — set the stage for what is now shaping up to be a global team clash unlike any other.
“This is a proud moment,” said Biado, now ranked World No. 3. “To return to the Reyes Cup as a top qualifier, and now as captain of Team Asia, is a huge honor. Winning the world title gave me confidence, but leading our team in front of our fans here in Manila makes it even more meaningful. Facing Fedor again? That’s something I’m definitely looking forward to.”
Gorst, making his Reyes Cup debut, expressed excitement over the opportunity to lead a diverse squad representing regions outside of Asia.
“It’s an amazing feeling to come in as World No. 1 and captain Team Rest of the World,” said Gorst. “This is my first time playing in the Philippines, and I know the energy here is going to be electric. Team Asia has a strong legacy, but we’re coming in prepared to challenge that and hopefully make history.”
A Clash of Continents
The Reyes Cup returns this year with a new format. While Team Asia will once again feature the top three Asian players in the World Nineball Tour rankings, Team Rest of the World will showcase talent from Europe, the Americas, Oceania, and beyond — making its debut as a unified international force.
Each team will consist of five players:
• Three automatic qualifiers
• Two wildcard picks
The final team rosters will be completed after the Hanoi Open (October 7–12), where the last two players per team will earn their spots. Wildcard selections will follow shortly after.
Iconic Venue, Iconic Event
The 2025 Reyes Cup is scheduled to take place from October 16 to 19 at the historic Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila — a venue that has hosted some of the country’s most iconic sporting events.
As anticipation builds, fans can expect world-class pool, fierce team competition, and another chapter in the growing Biado-Gorst rivalry — this time with national and continental pride on the line.
