Women in Cue Sports: Rising Stars and Global Impact

Cue sports—once a male-dominated arena—have seen a dramatic shift in recent decades as more women rise through the ranks, breaking barriers and gaining international recognition. From nine-ball to snooker, women are not only participating, but also transforming the competitive landscape with talent, charisma, and resilience.

A Historical Glance

Historically, female players had limited opportunities, with fewer tournaments and less media coverage. However, pioneers like Allison Fisher and Karen Corr, who transitioned from snooker to pool and dominated world championships, paved the way for future generations. Their success demonstrated that women could compete at the highest levels, drawing attention to gender equity in the sport.

Today’s Rising Stars

Modern cue sports are witnessing the rise of extraordinary female talent. Players like Kelly Fisher (UK), Siming Chen (China), and Chieh-Yu Chou (Taiwan) are leading figures on the international stage. Their skill, consistency, and competitive mindset have earned them top global rankings and respect across the cue sports community.

In snooker, Reanne Evans remains a trailblazer, with a record number of women’s titles and groundbreaking appearances in men’s tournaments. Her performance continues to challenge the perception of gender limitations in the sport.

Global Growth and Inclusion

The increasing visibility of women’s tournaments—thanks to social media, online streaming, and organizations like the WPBA (Women's Professional Billiard Association) and WWS (World Women’s Snooker)—has helped boost participation globally. Countries like China, the Philippines, and South Korea have seen surges in youth enrollment in cue sports, with many young girls entering competitive play.

In addition, more mixed-gender tournaments and exhibition events are being introduced, offering platforms where women and men compete side by side, further emphasizing skill over stereotypes.

Challenges That Remain

Despite the progress, challenges persist. Prize money for women’s events still lags behind men’s, and media coverage remains uneven. Additionally, access to training facilities and professional sponsorship can be more limited for women in certain regions.

The Road Ahead

The future of women in cue sports looks promising. As more governing bodies commit to equality and grassroots programs grow, new stars are emerging from every corner of the globe. With increasing professionalism, support systems, and public interest, the global impact of women in cue sports will only continue to strengthen.

Cue sports are evolving—and women are undeniably shaping that future.