‘Disappointed’ Amit says Centeno deserves the gold

Chezka Centeno and Rubilen Amit of the Philippines celebrate after winning gold and silver medals, respectively, in the women’s 9-ball singles event of the 29th Southeast Asian Games billiards competition Sunday at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO/SEA GAMES MEDIA POOL

KUALA LUMPUR — It was a heartbreaker for Rubilen Amit in the Southeast Asian Games women’s 9-ball final Sunday.

“I asked God, if I lose, does it have to be this painful?,” said the 35-year-old in Filipino.

The two-time World 10-ball champion had two options for the 6-ball on the far end of the table in the 13th and last rack.

“I went for the high percentage, mathematically it’s the best choice,” said Amit who pocketed on the corner from right side of the table. She had all the intention of preparing for the 8-ball in back of the table.

“I felt that I hit it well. And then I saw it (mother ball) fall on the side pocket,” said Amit, who yelled along with the people watching the match at KLCC Function Hall 4.

But she didn’t want to take away the glory from her 18-year-old opponent.

“She deserves the gold medal. She came back from 2-5 and played steady,” said Amit. “But I can’t deny I was really disappointed. Give me the whole day to feel bad about it.”

Amit said she’s preparing for the Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games next month.