BREAKING: The highly anticipated 2025 WPA Heyball Champion of Champions has officially kicked off in Brisbane, Australia, on September 17, 2025. This landmark event, co-hosted by JOY Billiards and the World Pool-Billiard Association (WPA), is pivotal in the sport’s quest for Olympic inclusion.
The tournament has drawn an impressive 128 top players from 56 countries, competing for a share of a staggering $400,000 prize pool. Matches are played under unified WPA Heyball rules on JOY Q8 tables, showcasing the best of billiards talent. Fans can catch all the action live on WPALive.TV and the WHT Facebook page.
The event’s opening ceremony was a spectacular affair, attended by notable dignitaries including WPA President Ishaun Singh and Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner. A traditional Indigenous Australian performance kicked off the festivities, setting a tone of cultural inclusivity. In his remarks, WPA President Ishaun Singh emphasized Heyball’s potential, stating, “Heyball is not only China’s pride but also the future of global sports.”
With Brisbane set to host the 2032 Olympic Games, the city serves as an ideal backdrop for promoting this dynamic sport. WPA Secretary General Barry Jenner confirmed ongoing efforts to include Heyball in the upcoming Olympics, stating, “We are dedicated to making Heyball a staple in the Olympic family.”
The significance of this tournament extends beyond the competition itself. Qiao Yuanyu, CEO of JOY Billiards, highlighted the event’s deeper impact, declaring, “The greatness of a sport lies not only in the champions it produces, but in its power to bring the world closer together.” JOY Billiards has invested over $6 million since launching the “Champion of Champions” series in 2024 to establish an inclusive tournament framework across all ages and genders.
As the competition unfolds, spectators and players alike are poised for an exhilarating showcase of skill and sportsmanship. The excitement surrounding the Heyball tournament is palpable, and its contribution to international sports culture is undeniable.
Stay tuned for more updates as the tournament progresses and the world watches this sport take significant strides towards its Olympic future. With global interest surging, the 2025 WPA Heyball Champion of Champions is not just a competition; it’s a celebration of unity and athletic excellence.
