Efren Reyes, a legendary Filipino pool player known worldwide as “The Magician,” has a life story as fascinating as his billiards talent. Born on August 26, 1954, in the small town of Pampanga, Philippines, Reyes came from a very humble background. Despite the poverty surrounding him, he grew up with a strong passion for billiards, which ultimately made him one of the greatest players to ever grace the pool table.
His journey into the world of pool began when he was just five years old. He moved to Manila to live with his uncle, who owned a pool hall. It was there that Reyes started learning the game by cleaning the pool tables, and he even slept on the tables themselves. Due to his small stature, he had to stand on Coca-Cola crates just to reach the table. This humble beginning marked the start of his life’s passion. By the age of nine, he was already playing for money, and at 12, he earned his first $100 in prize money, sending $90 of it back to his family in Pampanga.
Reyes quickly gained recognition for his skills, and by his early twenties, he was notorious in the local billiard scene. He dropped out of school, fully committing to the game he loved, and began participating in international tournaments. His precision, unique techniques, and natural talent soon made him a feared competitor on the global stage. Players around the world began to avoid facing him, knowing that his skill could not easily be matched.
One of the most interesting aspects of Reyes’ career was his mischievous yet brilliant move to play under a false identity. In 1985, Reyes used the name of his best friend, Caesar Morales, to confuse his opponents at a tournament in Houston, Texas. This allowed him to remain unbeaten for 21 days, winning $81,000. It wasn’t until later that people realized Morales and Reyes were the same person. This trick added to the mystique surrounding Reyes’ legendary status.
In addition to his many tournament victories, Reyes made history by winning the largest prize in pool history at the time—$500,000—for a single game. This win cemented his position as one of the greatest players in the sport. His remarkable shot-making ability, including left-handed plays that defied expectations, earned him the title of “The Magician” and made him a household name in the world of billiards.
Reyes’ achievements in the world of pool are unparalleled. He was named Player of the Decade by the United States Billiard Media Association (US BMA) and became the first non-American player to win the prestigious US Open Nine-ball Championship. He is also the first player in World Pool Association (WPA) history to win world championships in two different disciplines. Throughout his career, he has been awarded numerous accolades, including being named a top-earning player by the Billiards Money List five times. His contributions to the sport have made him a national hero in the Philippines, where he received the Philippine Legion of Honor and the Order of Lakandula Champion of Life Award.
Despite his success and fame, Reyes has remained humble. He lives in a simple house in his hometown of Pampanga, surrounded by his family, grandchildren, and close friends. His life is far from the extravagant lifestyle often associated with wealthy athletes. Reyes enjoys spending time with his loved ones, playing pool, and engaging in daily activities such as having hot soups, sharing drinks, and watching friendly pool matches. He even gave his grandson a pool table, seeing potential in him as a future player. Reyes’ humble nature extends to his business practices, where he invests his money into ventures that benefit his family’s future, including providing for their education.
Additionally, Reyes has recently developed a passion for chess, learning the game by observing others and practicing with family and friends. This love for strategic games shows his ability to adapt and continue challenging himself, even outside of billiards.
Beyond his pool career, Reyes is also known for his philanthropic efforts. He has chosen not to flaunt his wealth, preferring to invest in the education of his relatives and provide for their well-being. His humility, empathy, and love for his family make him an admired figure not just in the pool world but also in his community. Reyes is the epitome of generosity and integrity, and his actions have inspired countless people around the world.
Throughout his life, Efren Reyes has transcended the sport of billiards. His skill, determination, and graciousness have transformed the global image of pool, particularly in the Philippines. He has become a symbol of excellence, hard work, and humility, and his legacy will undoubtedly influence future generations of pool players.
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