“O’MIN CUELEES CUP” DUYA LEGENDS GOLDEN NINE MASTERS launched grandly on June 28th in Linghai, Zhejiang, China. The event attracted 380 million viewers via live broadcast over five days, with the opening ceremony taking place on the night of July 4th at the Linhai Stadium.
The tournament was hosted by the Linhai City Culture and Radio, Television, Tourism and Sports Bureau and the Linhai City Social Undertakings Development Group Co., Ltd. It was undertaken and title-sponsored by Zhejiang Yichen Billiards Co., Ltd and Qinhuangdao Duya Billiards Sports Promotion Co., Ltd, with full support from the World Pool Association (WPA) and the China Association for Small & Medium Commercial Enterprises. Over 20 deep-cooperative brands actively participated, showcasing a collaborative effort from various sectors.
Golden Nine, an integral aspect of rational billiards sports, is cherished by both domestic and international billiards enthusiasts for its rich Chinese cultural roots and distinctive competitive features. Known for its fast-paced gameplay, high level of confrontation, and strategic depth, Golden Nine is shaping the global billiards landscape.
The tournament drew 384 top players and association representatives from 16 countries and regions, including China, the UK, Canada, South Africa, Malaysia, and the Philippines. The “O’MIN CUELEES CUP” DUYA LEGENDS GOLDEN NINE MASTERS stands as one of China’s premier international events, symbolizing the country’s significant achievements in the sports industry. The event highlights the allure of Golden Nine and its growing influence and competitive stature worldwide.
The opening ceremony was a spectacular affair, commencing with a magnificent light show that signaled the official start of the event. The exhibition of Linhai’s intangible cultural heritage highlighted the city’s rich historical charm and the impressive achievements of Chinese culture.
During the ceremony, 384 players from 16 countries and regions, alongside international billiards association representatives, made a grand entrance. The arena was filled with national flags fluttering in the Blue Gem arena, and a packed audience, demonstrating the global impact of Golden Nine. Participants stood in respect, saluting the national flag and singing the National Anthem of the People’s Republic of China.
Wang Xiaoxiao, Member of the Party Leadership Group and Deputy Mayor of Linhai Municipal People’s Government, delivered a welcome speech. She emphasized Linhai City’s commitment to integrating industrial, cultural, and landscape advantages through high-standard sports events, which has significantly boosted the local sports industry.
Barry Jenner, Executive Director of the World Pool Association, spoke on behalf of the WPA, marking the organization’s first collaboration with the 
China Association for Small & Medium Commercial Enterprises Billiards Industry Branch. He praised the event’s sound and lighting effects and acknowledged the Linhai government’s coordination and the contributions of the 22 sponsors. Jenner expressed optimism for the continued development of billiards globally and the sport’s potential inclusion in the Olympic Games.
Shen Yagui, Secretary of the China Association for Small & Medium Commercial Enterprises, highlighted the robust development of the billiards industry and its significance as a national fitness project. He noted the event’s role in promoting Chinese culture and aiding the global growth of Chinese Pool.
Li Kangdi, General Manager of Zhejiang Yichen Billiards Co., Ltd., extended gratitude to the organizers and affirmed the company’s dedication to advancing the Golden Nine sport. He emphasized the company’s commitment to innovation and service in providing top-notch products for billiards enthusiasts.
The break ceremony featured prominent figures, including Barry Jenner, Shen Yagui, Li Hua (First-level Inspector of the Zhejiang Provincial Sports Bureau), Qiao Bing (Vice President of the China Association for Small & Medium Commercial Enterprises and Chairman of Qinhuangdao Duya Billiards Sports Promotion Co., Ltd), and Li Qinghui (Chairman of Zhejiang Yichen Billiards Co., Ltd).
Following the break ceremony, the Duya Girls’ performance showcased the energy and enthusiasm of youth, mirroring the dynamic spirit of Golden Nine. The opening game of the main matches saw Gareth Potts and Shen Haoran competing, with international gold medal referee Wang Zhongyao officiating.
Over the next six days, top players will compete fiercely for the championship title, making the “O’MIN CUELEES CUP” DUYA LEGENDS GOLDEN NINE MASTERS an event to watch. This tournament not only celebrates the sport of Pool but also underscores China’s growing influence in the global sports arena.
