Chezka Centeno yields World 10-Ball crown

Chezka Centeno surrendered her World 10-Ball women’s title in the semifinals of the World Pool-Billiard Association (WPA) World 10-Ball Women’s Championships in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Centeno fell 0-2 behind familiar South Korean opponent Seo Seoa on Saturday, November 16, in the round of four, triumphed in the third frame but was outplayed again 1-4 in the succeeding match.

Seo then lost 1-4, 4-3, 3-4, 4-3, 4-0 to eventual champion Kristina Tkach of Russia, ultimately settling for second place.

Despite not being able to defend her title, Centeno remained thankful.

“I may not have retained my title, but finishing in the Top 4 is more than I expected and for that, I am truly grateful,” wrote Centeno in a social media post.

The 25-year-old Filipina was aiming to win the annual competition back-to-back after dominating the meet the year before in Klagenfurt, Austria.

Centeno claimed she was not in her greatest form going into the competition and that the stress of defending her title affected her in the semifinals.

However, Centeno finds comfort in the idea that she will finally find what is meant for her.

"While I didn't achieve that this year, I firmly believe that what's truly meant for me will never pass me by, and that belief helps me accept my fate gracefully in every tournament. It's a mindset that has carried me through both victories and challenges," said Centeno.