DOHA: Four Filipino players secured places in Stage 2 of the 10-Ball World Cup, being hosted by the Qatar Billiards and Snooker Federation until October 29, as Qatar’s Nasser Al Saadi registered the hosts’ first victory in the opening stage.
Raymond Faraon, Mark Estiola, Marlon Caneda and Rocky Tullao advanced to the second stage of the tournament following their performances in the opening round.
Al Saadi provided a boost for the home contingent with a convincing 7-3 victory over Kuwait’s Fahad Al Tuwaitan, securing Qatar’s first win in Stage 1, although several other Qatari players were eliminated.
Meanwhile, the Qatar Billiards and Snooker Federation announced the launch of the Qatar Billiards Academy on the sidelines of the tournament, aiming to develop players’ technical skills and encourage greater participation among young people.
Federation Executive Director Mubarak Al Khayarin said the academy would welcome aspiring players from Qatar and abroad, providing opportunities to improve their abilities and gain experience in the sport.
He said the initiative was proposed by Qatar national team coach Mansour Al Khanfari to take advantage of the presence of leading international and regional players competing in Doha.
The academy is expected to support the federation’s efforts to develop emerging talent and promote billiards among younger generations.
