The Greatest Matches in Pool History (And What Made Them Special)

Every great sport has its defining moments — games that transcend statistics and become legendary. In the world of pool, a few matches have reached that iconic status, showcasing extraordinary talent, drama, and emotional stakes. These matches didn’t just determine winners; they reshaped the sport’s legacy, inspired new generations, and reminded us why pool is as much mental as mechanical.

Here are some of the greatest matches in pool history, and why they still resonate today:

1. Earl Strickland vs. Efren Reyes – 1996 Color of Money Challenge Match

Format: Race to 120

Location: Hong Kong

Why It’s Special:
Dubbed the Clash of Titans, this match between two all-time legends was a 3-day marathon that drew global attention. Earl, the fiery American, versus Efren, the soft-spoken Filipino magician, represented not just different styles but different philosophies.
Efren’s comeback from a large deficit and ultimate 120-117 win showcased his composure, creativity, and killer instinct. For many, it was proof that pool is as much about heart as it is about precision.

2. Shane Van Boening vs. Dennis Orcollo – 2021 "The Money Match"

Format: Race to 120 in 10-Ball

Location: South Dakota, USA

Why It’s Special:
This modern classic wasn't just about money — it was a collision of two top players pushing their limits. Van Boening's relentless break and run-outs contrasted Orcollo's calm consistency.
In the end, Shane’s narrow victory confirmed his place among the game’s elite and reignited fan excitement for long-format endurance matches.

3. Reyes vs. Earl Strickland – 2001 Tokyo 9-Ball

Format: Single elimination, international field

Why It’s Special:
In this high-stakes final, Reyes and Strickland met again. With global broadcast and massive viewership, the match was a back-and-forth battle of strategy and risk-taking.
Efren's victory here further fueled his mythos, especially with his clutch jump shot and impossible safeties. It solidified his status as perhaps the most creative shot-maker in history.

4. Alex Pagulayan vs. Thorsten Hohmann – 2004 World 9-Ball Championship Final

Format: Race to 17

Location: Taipei, Taiwan

Why It’s Special:
Two young stars at the peak of their form, this final was a technical masterpiece. Pagulayan’s flamboyant style met Hohmann’s quiet precision. The tension was palpable, and Alex’s emotional win made him a fan favorite worldwide.
This match helped expand the game’s reach in Southeast Asia and underscored the rise of new talent from around the globe.

5. Ko Pin-Yi vs. Shane Van Boening – 2015 World 10-Ball Championship Final

Format: Race to 11

Location: General Santos, Philippines

Why It’s Special:
With both players in phenomenal form, this final was a display of pure firepower and finesse. Ko’s ability to control cue ball position and Shane’s monster breaks kept viewers on edge throughout.
Ko’s eventual win marked the beginning of Taiwan’s golden generation, proving that Asian players could dominate even on American soil.

What These Matches Have in Common

High pressure: Every match had enormous stakes — financial, emotional, and historical.

Contrasting styles: Many of these matches pitted offensive firepower against strategic finesse.

Legacy impact: Each game elevated the players involved and had ripple effects across the sport.

Why They Still Matter

These legendary matches are time capsules of greatness. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, watching or rewatching these moments teaches you about composure, tactical decision-making, and the unquantifiable beauty of competitive pool. They remind us that the cue sport is not just about potting balls — it’s about battling nerves, reading your opponent, and rising in the clutch.

If you're building a playlist of essential matches to watch or share with fellow fans, start here. These aren't just games — they're chapters in the living history of pool.