By ADRIAN STEWART CO

Bacolodnon pool star Johann Chua’s quest for a deep run in the 2025 World Pool Championship came to another disappointing end after falling to longtime nemesis, Cebuano Anton Raga, 11-6, in the Round of 32 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Chua, considered one of the tournament favorites, was once again unable to solve the puzzle that is Raga — marking his third consecutive loss to the Cebuano cue artist in major international play.

Their rivalry, which began at the 2019 China Open when Raga edged Chua, 11-9, in the Round of 16, has turned lopsided in recent years.

Raga beat him again in the 2023 China Open, 9-5, and now delivered another stinging defeat in their latest encounter.

Despite Chua’s impressive résumé, including a gold medal at the Southeast Asian Games and multiple international podium finishes, the 32-year-old continues to struggle against Raga’s aggressive, high-pressure game style.

Raga’s poise and precision once again proved too much, as Chua failed to mount a serious comeback after falling behind early.

The loss is a tough blow for Chua, who had hoped to finally break through on the world stage after several strong performances in the past year.

Chua will have to go back to the drawing board as he continues to chase the elusive world title.

Whether he can finally overcome Raga in future tournaments remains to be seen./ASC, WDJ