The World Pool Association (WPA) is proud to announce Austria’s Jasmin Ouschan and Greece’s Alexander Kazakis as the WPA Athletes of the Year for 2025, recognising two exceptional careers that once again reached remarkable heights over the past season.
In a year defined by world-class competition across multiple disciplines and continents, both Ouschan and Kazakis distinguished themselves through consistency, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Their performances throughout 2025 ultimately saw them rise to the pinnacle of the sport, each finishing the season as World No.1 in their respective WPA rankings.
For Jasmin Ouschan, 2025 was yet another chapter in an already legendary career. Known for her precision, composure, and versatility across disciplines, she delivered a series of outstanding performances on the global stage, including capturing the Women’s 8-Ball World Championship title. Her victory was one for the history books, as it marked the first ever World Championship held in the 8-Ball discipline. Her ability to consistently perform at the highest level, year after year, continues to set the benchmark in women’s cue sports and inspire a new generation of players worldwide.
Alexander Kazakis’ 2025 season was equally impressive, reaffirming his position among the elite in the men’s game. Demonstrating exceptional consistency across WPA-sanctioned events, Kazakis produced a string of deep tournament runs, including reaching the final of the 10-Ball World Championship against Ko Ping-chung and the final of the 8-Ball World Championship against Albin Ouschan. He showcased the competitive edge and professionalism that have become synonymous with his name. His rise to World No.1 reflects not only his results but also his sustained excellence throughout the season.
The WPA Athlete of the Year Award recognises more than just results. It honours those athletes who embody the values of the sport – professionalism, integrity, and dedication, both on and off the table. In 2025, Jasmin Ouschan and Alexander Kazakis exemplified these qualities at every stage, representing cue sports with distinction on the global stage.
The WPA will formally present the Athlete of the Year Awards to both athletes in Saint Louis, USA, in April 2026, where we will celebrate their achievements and contributions to the sport.
As the WPA looks ahead to another exciting year, the accomplishments of Ouschan and Kazakis serve as a powerful reminder of the level of excellence that continues to drive the sport forward. Their success in 2025 not only defines the present moment in cue sports but also sets the standard for the future.
The WPA extends its sincere congratulations to both athletes on this well-deserved recognition.
