WPBA Classic Players Championship Concludes in Spectacular Fashion —
Chieh-Yu Chou Crowned Champion
LAUDERHILL, FL — From the first break of the week to the final championship 9-ball, the WPBA Classic Players Championship delivered world-class drama, elite shot-making, and a finish worthy of the sport’s biggest stage.
Reporting from the floor at Classic Billiards, you could feel the tension building as the bracket tightened and the stakes grew heavier with every rack. Championship Sunday brought an international final four that showcased the true depth of women’s professional pool.
When it was all said and done, it was Chieh-Yu Chou who rose above the field to claim the title.
Chou’s championship performance was defined by precision, composure, and fearless execution under pressure. Her cue-ball control was masterful. Her decision-making was disciplined. And in the biggest moments, she played with the calm authority of a seasoned champion. From the rail, you could see it — she wasn’t just reacting to the match, she was controlling it.
Finishing as runner-up was Chezka Centeno, whose run to the finals electrified the crowd all weekend. Centeno’s hot seat victory was one of the defining performances of the tournament, highlighted by aggressive shot selection and unwavering confidence. In the championship match, she battled rack for rack, forcing Chou to earn every opportunity.
Third place honors went to Han Yu, whose consistency and tactical brilliance once again proved why she remains one of the most formidable competitors on tour. Fourth place was claimed by Pia Filler, who brought her signature firepower and championship grit deep into the bracket.
Taiwan. Philippines. China. Germany. The final standings reflected the truly global nature of the WPBA and the extraordinary level of talent competing on our tour.
On behalf of the Women’s Professional Billiards Association, we extend our deepest gratitude to Classic Billiards and its outstanding owners, Dave and Leah Bartosiak. Their hospitality, professionalism, and commitment to excellence created a championship atmosphere that elevated every match. The conditions were first-class, the energy was electric, and the venue once again proved to be one of the premier destinations in professional billiards. Classic Billiards Lauderhill, FL added $50,000 to this event. The largest single added money event in a pool hall in the 50 years of the WPBA
We also want to sincerely thank all of our WPBA tour sponsors. Your continued support fuels the growth of women’s professional pool and provides these athletes with the platform they deserve. Because of you, moments like this are possible.
As the final trophy was lifted and the applause echoed through Classic Billiards, one thing was clear — the level of women’s professional billiards continues to rise. The WPBA Classic Players Championship was more than a tournament; it was a statement about the strength, depth, and future of the game.
Congratulations to our champion, Chieh-Yu Chou. Congratulations to our finalists and top finishers. And thank you to the fans around the world who followed every rack.
This event had 17 different countries being represented in an all out battle.
The WPBA moves forward stronger than ever — and the best is yet to come. See you at Raxx in NYC next month!
Left to Right: Dean Roessler (WPBA President) Chieh-Yu Chou “Rita” (Tournament Champion) Dave, Leah & Domicela Bartosiak (Owners of Classic Billiards)