Pinoy Power: Centeno & Corteza Triumph in Las Vegas Open

The 2024 Las Vegas Open by Rums of Puerto Rico concluded in a spectacular fashion as Filipino billiards sensations Chezka Centeno and Lee Vann Corteza emerged victorious, clinching the women’s and men’s titles respectively. This historic win marks the first US Pro Billiard Series title for both athletes, solidifying their prowess on the international billiards stage.

In an electrifying All-Filipino final, Lee Vann Corteza showcased exceptional kicks and safeties, defeating Carlo Biado in two sets with scores of 4-2 and 4-3. Meanwhile, Chezka Centeno, the reigning Women’s World 10-Ball champion beat former world champion Siming Chen also in two sets with scores of 4-2 and 4-2.

Las Vegas Women’s Open

• Semifinal: Chezka Centeno 2 – 1 Seo Seoa (4-3, 0-4, 3-3, shootout 4-3)
• Semifinal: Siming Chen 2 – 0 Chihiro Kawahara (4-0, 4-2)
• Final: Chezka Centeno 2 – Siming Chen 0 (4-2, 4-2)

Las Vegas Men’s Open

• Semifinal: Lee Vann Corteza 2 – 0 Ping Chung Ko (4-3, 4-0)
• Semifinal: Carlo Biado 2 – 0 Francisco Sanchez Ruiz (4-1, 4-1)
• Final: Lee Vann Corteza 2 – Carlo Biado 0 (4-2, 4-3)

Lee Vann Corteza’s journey to the title included surviving three shootouts, playing a total of nine matches, while Chezka Centeno played six matches, clinching victory in three of them through shootouts.

The excitement continues at the CSI Expo Las Vegas with the inaugural Apex Mixed Doubles event, where eight pairs will compete for a $25,000 prize pool in a one-day event filled with thrilling matches.

Upcoming events include the Pro Billiard Series Women Showdown and the Predator WPA World Men’s World 10-Ball, set to kick off on Tuesday.

Pool enthusiasts can catch all the action live on Pro Billiard TV’s YouTube channel, with two TV tables available for free streaming. Additionally, fans are invited to witness the excitement firsthand at the Rio All Suite Hotel and Casino, with free admission to the event.

The success of the 2024 Las Vegas Open by Rums of Puerto Rico would not have been possible without the generous support of sponsors and partners, including Predator Group, Rums of Puerto Rico, Kamui, Yalin, Cue Sports International, Medalla Light, and Samsung TV.