Pinoy Pool Icons Reyes and Bustamante Kick Off WNT Legends 9-Ball with Wins
In a thrilling display of skill and experience, Filipino pool legends Efren “Bata” Reyes and Francisco “Django” Bustamante each claimed victories against their respective opponents to start the WNT Legends 9-Ball event on a high note. The competition began on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at the Gateway Mall 2 Quantum Skyview in Quezon City, drawing attention from billiards enthusiasts across the nation.
Bustamante's Hard-Fought Victory Over Strickland
Francisco “Django” Bustamante launched his campaign in the three-day tournament by defeating American legend Earl "The Pearl" Strickland with a final score of 11-9. The match was a rollercoaster of momentum shifts, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats.
Bustamante initially surged ahead, building a 4-1 lead in the race-to-11 format. However, Strickland demonstrated his resilience by rallying back to tie the game at 4-4, showcasing the competitive spirit that has defined his career. As the match progressed, the score remained tight, reaching another deadlock at 8-8.
In a crucial turning point, Bustamante managed to string together two consecutive wins, pushing his advantage to 10-8. From there, he maintained his composure to secure the victory, setting a strong tone for his performance in the tournament.
Reyes' Gritty Win Against Souquet
Efren “Bata” Reyes, often referred to as “The Magician” for his uncanny ability on the table, faced a tough challenge from German pool icon Ralf "The Kaiser" Souquet. Reyes emerged victorious with a score of 11-8, but not without a hard-fought battle that tested his legendary prowess.
Reflecting on his win, Reyes attributed part of his success to a bit of luck, acknowledging the skill of his opponent. "Itong mga nakalaban ko magaling din ito eh, nakalaban ko na dati. Kaya lang sinwerte ako ngayon. Walang pumapasok sa break eh. Una siyang nag-break pero walang nahulog, kaya nauna ako," Reyes shared in an interview posted on www.gmanews.tv. This candid admission highlights the unpredictable nature of the sport, where even veterans rely on a mix of strategy and fortune.
The match saw Reyes navigating through a close contest, with Souquet putting up a formidable defense. Ultimately, Reyes' experience and tactical play allowed him to clinch the win, adding another memorable moment to his storied career.
Implications for the Tournament
These opening victories by Reyes and Bustamante not only boost their standings in the WNT Legends 9-Ball event but also reinforce the Philippines' reputation as a powerhouse in the world of pool billiards. The tournament, featuring some of the greatest names in the sport, promises more exciting matches as it unfolds over the coming days.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if these Filipino legends can maintain their momentum and potentially face off against each other in later rounds. The event serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of players like Reyes and Bustamante, who continue to inspire new generations of athletes in the country.
