Overview
The World Cup of Pool is one of the most exciting and distinctive events in professional 9-ball, known for its national pride, doubles format, and unpredictable drama. Organized annually by Matchroom Pool, the tournament features pairs of elite players representing their countries in a single-elimination team tournament.
Launched in 2006, the World Cup of Pool is as much a celebration of international rivalry as it is a showcase of 9-ball excellence. With 32 national teams competing in a knockout bracket across five days, fans get to watch unique player combinations, often featuring world champions and national heroes teaming up under one flag.
Unlike traditional singles events, the World Cup of Pool tests team chemistry, strategic rotation, and the ability to perform under the pressure of national representation. Every match is played in a fast-paced doubles format, with increased tension and tighter margins — earning the tournament a reputation for thrilling upsets and breakout pairings.
In recent years, the event has seen powerhouse nations like Philippines, USA, Germany, and China dominate the winner’s list — but smaller billiards countries like Poland, Austria, and Estonia have made deep runs, adding to the tournament’s growing prestige and unpredictability.
Quote
“It’s one thing to play well alone, and another to play well together. The World Cup brings out a different side of professional pool — and it’s amazing for fans.”
— Jayson Shaw, Team Scotland captain
Team dynamics, emotional energy, and strategic momentum make the World Cup of Pool a rare and valuable challenge even for veteran champions. With national pride on the line, matches are often more passionate and higher-stakes than individual tournaments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the World Cup of Pool?
The World Cup of Pool is an annual international 9-ball team tournament, where 32 two-player teams—each representing a different country—compete in a single-elimination format. It is promoted by Matchroom and broadcast globally.
How does the format work?
| Phase | Description |
|---|---|
| Round of 32 | 32 national teams seeded, first to 7 |
| Round of 16 & QFs | Matches race to 9 |
| Semifinals & Final | Race to 9–11, depending on the edition |
| Shot Clock/Alternate Break | Used throughout to standardize play |
- Doubles format rules: Players alternate shots, not racks. Mistakes or safeties require immediate teamwork.
- Winner’s break rule has been alternated in some years but is usually replaced with alternate break in later rounds.
Why is the format so different from other pool tournaments?
Unlike most 9-ball events that are solo competitions, this one is entirely team-based — meaning players rotate shots within each rack, adding a layer of coordination, rhythm, and pressure that doesn’t exist in singles play.
It also promotes national storylines and rivalries, creating massive anticipation regardless of individual seeding. For example:
- Germany vs. Austria
- Philippines vs. USA
- Asian powerhouses vs. European champions
How do players qualify for the World Cup of Pool?
- Each country is invited by Matchroom, which selects:
- A two-player team, often based on the Matchroom Nineball Rankings
- Subject to availability, chemistry, and national appeal
- Nations with a strong 9-ball tradition are usually guaranteed a place: e.g., USA, Philippines, China, Spain, Germany, Poland
- Wildcard slots allow new or rising nations (e.g., Vietnam, Hong Kong, Kuwait) to participate
Which country has won the most World Cup titles?
| Nation | Titles | Notable Players |
|---|---|---|
| Philippines | 3 | Efren Reyes, Django Bustamante, Jeff de Luna |
| Germany | 2 | Thorsten Hohmann, Ralf Souquet, Joshua Filler |
| China | 2 | Li Hewen, Fu Jianbo |
| USA | 1 | Rodney Morris, Shane Van Boening |
| Austria | 2 | Albin Ouschan, Mario He |
The tournament has had more than 10 unique champion nations, showing the global spread of competitive 9-ball.
Where is the tournament held?
The venue has changed locations over the years, but notable cities include:
- York Hall, London, UK
- Lavanttal Arena, Austria
- Harrow Leisure Centre, UK
- Morningside Arena, Leicester (recent editions)
The tournament often returns to the UK due to Matchroom’s production base and broadcast partners — but expansion into Asia and Europe remains likely.
Where can I watch it?
Coverage is global thanks to Matchroom’s dedicated pool broadcasting:
- Live stream: Matchroom.live
- Broadcast: DAZN, Sky Sports, Viaplay, Migu (varies by region)
- YouTube highlights: Daily match recaps on the Matchroom Pool channel
Coming Soon
We’re currently building out a complete World Cup of Pool hub, including:
- Year-by-year winners, runners-up, scores
- Full country appearance history
- Top duos by win rate
- Most memorable comebacks and upsets
- Break stats, shot clock violations, and fast-rack records
- Exclusive visuals of team walkouts and national flags
This will offer one of the web’s most complete archives of the World Cup of Pool — perfect for fans, journalists, and commentators.