Vietnamese billiards player Tran Thanh Luc clinched victory in the three-cushion carom World Cup in Bogota, Colombia, defeating Turkish opponent Tayfun Tasdemir 50-47 in the final.

Facing Tasdemir, one of the world's top players with multiple prestigious titles in the World Cup and World Championship, Tran Thanh Luc was considered the underdog, as this was his first-ever appearance in a World Cup final.

Despite this, the Vietnamese cueist displayed remarkable confidence. In the opening set, he built an early lead and then surged ahead with a series of scoring streaks, ultimately winning 26-13. However, in the second set, Tasdemir showcased his experience, making a strong comeback. In the 19th turn, the Turkish player executed a remarkable seven-point shot, narrowing the gap to 20-27.

At the 25th turn, Tasdemir delivered another seven-point series, bringing the score to 31-34. The match intensified as Tran Thanh Luc responded with a five-point run, extending his lead to 39-31. Tasdemir continued to fight back, cutting the deficit to 47-49.

In the 36th turn, Tran Thanh Luc sealed the victory with the decisive point, triumphing 50-47 to claim his first-ever World Cup title in Bogota.

With this achievement, he became the third Vietnamese billiards player to win a World Cup championship, following in the footsteps of Tran Quyet Chien and Tran Duc Minh.

His journey to the championship was remarkable, including a stunning 50-37 semifinal victory over world number one Dick Jaspers.

Five Vietnamese players participated in the three-cushion carom World Cup in Bogota: Tran Duc Minh, Tran Quyet Chien, Bao Phuong Vinh, Chiem Hong Thai, and Tran Thanh Luc.

Dai Nam