At 10:00 a.m. that day, Chang competed and defeated Indonesian player Tommy 2-0 in the round of 32. He then returned to his hotel to rest before his next match against another Indonesian player, Yoni Rachmanto, in the round of 18 scheduled for 4:00 p.m.

However, a member of the organizing committee discovered Chang deceased in his hotel room. Initial reports indicate the Taiwanese player suffered a fatal heart attack.

Taiwanese billiards player Chang Jung-lin passed away on 14/7/2025 in his hotel room while participating in the 10-ball billiard Indonesia Open 2025. Photo: *Matchroom*

The Indonesia Open 2025 is part of the World Pool-Billiard Association (WPA) system. The organization confirmed the news at 9:00 p.m. and expressed their condolences.

The WPA described Chang as an exceptional player with a calm and dignified demeanor. "Chang was respected for his humility, integrity, and unwavering passion which elevated the sport globally," the WPA statement read. "He was a hero to a generation of Taiwanese players with unforgettable performances. We have lost a legend, but his spirit and contributions to billiards will never be forgotten."

Matchroom and the World Nineball Tour also expressed their sadness upon hearing of the 1985-born player's passing. "Chang was one of the most talented and fierce competitors of his generation," a Matchroom statement said. "Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all those affected during this difficult time."

Chang began his pool billiards career in 2000. His early achievements included finishing as runner-up in the World 9-Ball Junior Championship in 2001 and 2003. In 2005, he made his first appearance at the World 9-Ball Championship, reaching the round of 16, his best result in the tournament.

The highlights of Chang's career were winning the WPA World 8-Ball Championship in 2012 and the WPA World Team Championship in 2013. He also won a silver medal in 9-ball billiards at the 2013 World Games and the Asian 10-Ball Championship in 2024.

Chang was considered a pioneer of Taiwanese pool billiards, inspiring many renowned players such as Wu Chia-ching, Ko Pin-yi, and Ko Ping-chung.

Trung Thu