Player Chiem Hong Thai competes against Frederic Caudron in the 3-cushion carom World Cup final on the evening of 24/5 at Nguyen Du Arena, TP HCM. *Photo: Duc Dong*

In his first World Cup final, Hong Thai appeared to suffer from nerves, a psychological phenomenon that caused his stroke rhythm to falter and led to a lack of confidence in crucial shots. In contrast, Caudron displayed his mastery, securing a convincing victory despite significant pressure from the Vietnamese crowd. The Belgian player is widely regarded as a "world billiards genius," having clinched 21 World Cup titles.

Caudron initiated the match, scoring 6 points immediately. He then followed with a 5-point run to lead 11-0. It was not until his third turn that Hong Thai scored his first point, narrowing the gap to 7-13. However, Caudron consistently held the upper hand, extending his lead to 23-15. A decisive 15-point run further widened the gap to 38-15 before the halftime break.

After the break, Caudron continued his high-class play, while Hong Thai frequently missed shots. The Belgian player comfortably secured a 50-25 victory in just 22 turns. He achieved an average of 2,273 points per turn, compared to the home player's 1,190.

Caudron celebrates his 3-cushion carom World Cup championship on the evening of 24/5 at Nguyen Du Arena, TP HCM, as Chiem Hong Thai looks on. *Photo: Duc Dong*

This victory marks Caudron's third World Cup title in TP HCM, following his triumphs in 2016 and 2019.

Despite not claiming the championship, the runner-up title is a significant achievement for Hong Thai. His journey to the final was remarkable, as he eliminated several renowned players, including Bao Phuong Vinh, Tran Quyet Chien, Dick Jaspers, and Eddy Merckx.

Born in Can Tho in 1999, Hong Thai is the youngest player among Vietnam's top billiards talents. He is currently ranked 22nd in the world and 4th in Vietnam, behind Tran Thanh Luc, Quyet Chien, and Phuong Vinh.

The TP HCM leg of the 2026 World Cup billiards tournament was organized by the Ho Chi Minh City Billiards & Snooker Federation (HBSF) from 18/5 to 24/5 at Nguyen Du Arena in Ben Thanh ward, TP HCM. The event attracted nearly 200 players from 19 countries and territories worldwide.

Duc Dong