Chezka Centeno wins the World 10-ball Women’s title.–Photo from Pro Billiard Series
MANILA, Philippines–Chezka Centeno scratched an item off her bucket list on Sunday.
Centeno gained world champion status after claiming the WPA World 10-ball Women’s title with a 9-5 win over China’s Han Yu in Klagenfurt, Austria.
“This is my dream to be a world champion,” said a tearful Centeno, who was overcome with joy.
The 24-year-old Centeno became just the second Filipina world champion in pool after Rubilen Amit, who ruled the prestigious tournament in 2009 and 2013. Amit tried for a third trophy but was booted out in the quarterfinal on Friday.
“I can hardly believe it – I am your new Women’s World 10-Ball Champion! This journey started when I was a 5-year-old with a dream, and today, I’m living it,” Centeno wrote on social media Monday.
“It’s a surreal moment that brings back memories of countless hours of hard work, tears, and disappointments. They are all worth it.”
The pride of Zamboanga City had to fight through adversity in her path to the crown.
After steamrolling defending champion Chou Chieh-Yu of Chinese Taipei, 9-2, in the quarters, Centeno stunned English legend Allison Fisher in comeback fashion in the semifinal, 9-8.
Back against the wall, Centeno reeled off five straight racks to knock off Fisher,
“I owe it all to God’s grace, for He has made everything beautiful in its time. I also want to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who made this journey possible,” she said.