MANILA — For two-time World Pool Champion Carlo Biado, nothing compares to playing in the Philippines, especially in front of his mother Lolita.
Biado credited his masterful performance in the first three days of the 2025 Reyes Cup to his mother's first time watching him live.
"First time ito talaga kaya thank you kay nanay na nandito siya, nanonood siya. Bukas nandito siya ulit sa panalo natin," he told reporters on Saturday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila.
(This is the first time and I'm really thankful to my mother that she is here to watch. She'll be here again tomorrow for our victory)
The 41-year-old said having his mother in the stands gave him a boost of confidence, resulting in him showing off his skills on the pool table.
"Talagang sinadya ko na gusto ko siyang mapunta rito para mapanood niya ako ng live," he said.
(I really made it a point that she would get to watch me live)
It wasn't just Biado's mother Lolita who was in attendance at the Reyes Cup. His wife and children were all present to cheer him on.
"Pinapalakas niya yung loob ko. Sa totoo lang yung laban na ito may pressure. Kaya lang sa daming experience ko sa international event, nadadala ko laban," Biado said.
(She gives me confidence. To be honest, there is pressure in this match. But because I have a lot of experience at international events, I'm able to win the game)
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The two-time World Pool Champion did not expect the Race to 11 to be this blown out, since their opponents include World No. 1 Feder Gorst and former champions.
But he said his opponents have fared badly in the tournament, giving him confidence that he could win the Reyes Cup
READ: Two-time World Pool Champion Carlo Biado honored to be elected into BCA Hall of Fame
As Team Asia heads into the final day of the Reyes Cup with a commanding 9-1 lead, Biado said they are confident but there is no room for complacency.
"Tingin ko 100 percent mananalo na tayo. Para matalo kami sa laban bukas, para matalo lang kami talaga, masamang-masama yung ilalaro ng mga kakampi ko," he said.
(I am 100% confident we will win. For us to lose tomorrow, it would take a really poor performance from my teammates)